Cold and Flu

The cold and flu are two of the most common (and contagious) respiratory illnesses. If you develop a dry cough, a sore throat, or postnasal drip, it’s important to identify the underlying cause. Intervention and treatment can help you feel better and prevent your symptoms from worsening. At Mercy Medical Urgent Care, urgent care specialist Bilal Khodr, MD, provides complete care for the cold and flu. To make an appointment, call the office in Lake City, Florida, or book online today. Walk-ins are also welcome.

What are the cold and flu?

The cold and flu are contagious illnesses that affect your upper respiratory system. They enter your body through your mouth or nose and infect your throat and lungs.

Everyone experiences the cold and flu occasionally. Usually, they respond to conservative, at-home treatments, like over-the-counter medication and rest. If your symptoms persist, worsen, or fail to improve, contact Mercy Medical Urgent Care immediately.

What are the symptoms of the cold and flu?

The cold and flu present a wide range of symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Sneezing
• Cough
• Chest congestion
• Watery eyes

If you have a cold or flu, you might also experience a sore throat or fatigue (lack of energy).

What can I do to reduce the risk of the cold and flu?

You can do various things to reduce the risk of catching a cold or flu. Mercy Medical Urgent Care recommends washing your hands regularly with soap and warm water, getting the seasonal flu shot, and avoiding others who are sick.

It’s also important to live a healthy lifestyle. Make sure to eat a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep. If you can, it’s also good to avoid high-touch surfaces, like door knobs and railings.

How are the cold and flu diagnosed?

To diagnose the cold or flu, your Mercy Medical Urgent Care provider reviews your medical records and asks about your symptoms. Next, they perform a physical exam. 

During the exam, your provider listens to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope. They also order blood work and a throat culture and take chest X-rays to look for fluid in your lungs. If your provider suspects a viral infection, like COVID-19, they might also order COVID-19 testing.

How are the cold and flu treated?

Treatment of the cold and flu depends on various factors, including your age, the severity of your symptoms, and whether you have any underlying health problems. After gathering the necessary information and making a diagnosis, Mercy Medical Urgent Care might recommend:

• Prescription antiviral medication
• Drinking plenty of liquids
• Getting lots of rest
• Taking over-the-counter pain relievers

Colds typically last between seven and 10 days* while the flu usually resolves in five days or less.

If you’re concerned about the cold and flu, make an appointment at Mercy Medical Urgent Care by calling the office, booking online, or walking in during regular business hours today.

*Individual results may vary.