When to go see a Doctor

• The common cold is an acute viral infection of the upper respiratory tract that is highly contagious.

• It is caused by more than 200 different viruses.

• The common cold is usually spread by hand-to-hand contact with another cold sufferer or by shared objects such as utensils, towels, and telephones.

• It is a self-limited condition that usually lasts 7-10 days and can be self-managed.

• Poor nutrition, lack of rest, alcohol use, and smoking may inhibit the body’s ability to fight the common cold.

• There are no medical cures or antibiotics to speed up the healing process.

• The common cold, as with any other viral infection, does not improve with treatment by antibiotics.

The following symptoms may indicate a need to see a doctor:	The following symptoms are best treated with common over-the-counter medications available at our Pharmacy:
Fever greater than 101º F	Sore or scratchy throat
Severe sore throat	Nasal congestion
Ear pain	Fullness in ears
Difficulty swallowing	Cough producing clear phlegm
Vomiting or abdominal pain	Fatigue
Difficulty breathing (worse than a stuffy nose)	Headache
Cough with green or brown phlegm
Have a history of asthma, heart problems, or lung problems
Cold symptoms not improved or becoming worse after 7-10 days
Severe headache not relieved by acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
If you think you have any of the above symptoms, you may have a more serious infection. You may benefit from a clinical evaluation at Student Health Services. Please call 909-869-4000 for an appointment.	If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, please visit our pharmacy for common over-the-counter medications to relieve your symptoms, and follow the instructions on our “Cold/Flu Self Care Clinic” page.