Coughing is a natural reflex that clears your airway of debris. When you’re sick and fighting off a respiratory tract infection, a persistent and severe cough can occur. While some coughs go away on their own, there are certain conditions which will require treatment by a medical professional, including bacterial infections. It can be difficult to determine whether your cough is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, however, symptoms like a very severe cough, wheezing, and coughing up discolored mucus can all indicate the presence of a bacterial infection. Keep reading to learn more about diagnosing and treating a cough, and when to seek medical care for your symptoms.
If you’re feeling sick and have a cough, you may need medical treatment. Mild coughs can go away on their own in most cases, however, severe coughs are likely caused by a bacterial infection which will require treatment to resolve. At AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook, our walk-in urgent care clinic in Bound Brook, NJ offers same-day treatment for coughs on a walk-in basis. Simply walk in when it’s convenient, or save your spot in advance using the button below. We’re open every day!
Understanding the Difference Between Viral & Bacterial Respiratory Infections
Respiratory tract infections are very common during the colder months. Respiratory illnesses can be caused by both viral and bacterial infections, and they specifically affect the lungs, airway and sinuses. These conditions tend to spread more during the colder months because when the weather gets cold, we spend more time indoors and in close contact with others without outdoor air circulating germs away. Both viral and bacterial illnesses are very contagious, and can spread in the air, on surfaces and through physical touch. However, generally speaking bacterial illnesses tend to be more severe and usually require medical treatment to cure. Most viral infections will go away on their own with time and proper symptom management.
When to Seek Medical Care for a Cough
If you’re suffering from a cough, it is difficult to determine whether your cough is caused by a virus or bacterial infection. However, there are a few symptoms which may help you determine whether you should seek medical care for your symptoms. If your symptoms last more than a week, or are worsening over time instead of getting better, you may have a bacterial infection which requires medical care. Similarly, if you’re coughing up discolored mucus that is green or yellow, you should seek medical care. Severe symptoms like trouble breathing, wheezing and a high fever all indicate that you need urgent medical care.
Treatment Options for Severe Coughs
A severe cough that is not going away or getting better on its own, or is producing some of the symptoms mentioned above requires medical care. In most cases, severe and long lasting symptoms indicate a bacterial infection as the underlying cause of your cough. However, the only way to determine the true cause of your symptoms is to get evaluated by a medical professional. Diagnostic testing can rule out certain conditions, and X-ray images may help examine the severity of the infection in your lungs. Your medical provider will be able to evaluate your symptoms and review the best course of treatment to get you back to feeling your best!
Visit AFC Bound Brook for Same-Day Cough Treatment Today
If you’re suffering from a severe cough, you could have a bacterial infection. Coughing can be caused by a wide range of underlying conditions, so getting evaluated by a medical professional is the fastest way to accurately diagnose your cough so that you can begin treatment. Delaying care can result in worsening symptoms and complications.
At AFC Urgent Care Bound Brook, our walk-in clinic offers convenient same-day cough treatment for patients of all ages. We understand that coughs can be an unpleasant symptom. That is why our team of dedicated medical providers is standing by 7 days a week to provide rapid care when you need it. We have a lab on-site for convenient diagnostic testing services. Our clinic accepts most medical insurance plans, and we have affordable rates for patients paying out-of-pocket for their medical care. To learn more, walk into the clinic or give us a call at (732) 469-3627.
