Ask the Expert Archive Week 24
Common Cold
We're constantly being told not to run to the doctor just for the sniffles, but what if it is something more serious?
Dr. David Greenberg explains how you can tell the difference. When should you see your doctor for a cold is an interesting question because it allows us to talk about when is a cold not a cold. Most people presume that a cold is running, sniffly nose with a little bit of cough - and just a stuffy head. But because all of these symptoms affect your upper respiratory track there are all sorts of other things going on in your upper respiratory track which are not a cold so those things would be things like ear infections, sinus infections, strep throat or other throat infections, asthma, or bronchitis or pneumonia. All of those things can present to people in much the same way as a cold does. Is it important to see a doctor about those things? Absolutely because they can be treated with antibiotics and you can be cured a lot more quickly. So the reality is if you have a clear runny nose, not much of a fever, that doesn't last more than a few days than don't see a doctor. If you have anything that involves a fever, any coloured runny nose, coughing, extreme pain in the front of your face, in your teeth, in your ears or in the back of your throat to the point that you have difficulty swallowing, then it would be a very good idea to give your family doctor a call. If you would like to send a question to Ask the Expert you can either email us at rx@tvo.org or fill out our form.
 |
||
|
© TVOntario, 2003 Disclaimer |
||
|
This
website contains general information on the stories featured on Your Health.
Although it’s our goal to provide comprehensive information on health
and medical issues, please be advised that we cannot provide individual
medical advice on specific health problems.
|
© TVOntario, 2000