Did you know that most of us experience one to two colds a year? If you have yet to experience a cold so far this year, you might want to take extra precautions to protect yourself from catching the common cold.

Our team at AFC Urgent Care of Chapman Highway want to give you helpful information on how you can both prevent and treat a common cold so that you can get back to living a normal life.

How Long Does a Cold Last For?

For the most part, the most severe symptoms of a common cold can last around three days. However, some symptoms of a cold, like a runny nose, may stick around for a bit longer as your body gets back to normal after illness.

Symptoms of a Common Cold

• Cough
• Sore throat
• Low-grade fever
• Runny nose
• Stuffy nose
• Congestion
• Slight body aches
• Mild headache
• Sneezing

How Can I Prevent a Common Cold?

Although a common cold is pretty contagious, there are some steps you can take in order to prevent it. For starters, you want to make sure you wash your hands frequently throughout the day and try to avoid touching your face as much as possible. Although it’s no substitute for washing with hot water and soap, using hand sanitizer can also help as well.

If someone you know is experiencing symptoms of the common cold, you want to avoid them until they have found relief from their symptoms.

Illness Prevention Basics

• Disinfect commonly touched surfaces often.
• Wash your hands often.
• Get plenty of quality sleep.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a balanced diet filled with fruits and veggies.
• Don’t smoke.

Do you think it is a cold or the flu? Stop by AFC Urgent Care on Chapman Highway in Knoxville today for a medical evaluation. We are here to help you get back to feeling like you!