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Colds symptoms are generally mild and go away on their own. They often do not require a visit to your physician. However, colds can develop into a more serious illness and it is important to know when you should consult your physician.
Contact your doctor if you notice any of the following symptoms:- High fever- for children a fever above 103°F (39.4°C), or that lasts for more than 3 days
- High fever- for adults a fever above 102°F (38.9°C)
- Symptoms that last for more than 10-14 days or appear to be getting worse instead of better
- Symptoms that improve, but return with a fever and a worse cough
- Trouble breathing, fast breathing, wheezing or shortness of breath
- Bluish skin color
- Severely swollen glands
- Earache or drainage from the ear (more common in children)
- Cough that produces mucous
- Changes in mental state such difficulty waking up or seizures- more common in children
- Fainting or feeling faint, confusion or disorientation- more common in adults
- Worsening of chronic medical condition such as diabetes, asthma or heart disease
- Pain or pressure in the chest
- Severe or persistent vomiting
- Severe sinus pain (pain in the face or forehead)
- Excessive crankiness (children)
- Dried yellow pus forming around the eyes (red watery eyes are common, yellow pus may indicate an infection)