Do you have cold-like symptoms that won’t go away? You may be suffering from spring allergies. Stick with us to learn the difference between a spring cold and spring allergies, and find out what testing for allergies can tell you.
Urgent medical conditions aren’t typically life-threatening, but still require medical attention within 24 hours. For example, you may have a cut that doesn’t bleed much but still needs stitches or a broken bone in your fingers or toes.
In some cases, even a persistent cough can become dangerous if you wait too long before seeing a medical professional. Our specialist, Dr. Rakesh Chugh, provides urgent care services and wants you to be aware of the signs that your cough may require a trip to urgent care.
Most coughs are caused by upper respiratory system infections. If you have an upper respiratory infection, your body requires rest and warm liquids to fight the infection.
Home remedies such as honey, cough drops, and hard candy can help you combat throat irritation, and humidifiers and hot showers can help you breathe easier. If you respond well to home remedies and your cough doesn’t last more than a couple of weeks, you may not need antibiotics or other drugs to treat it.
However, coughs that don’t go away on their own and come with symptoms such as wheezing, fever, fainting, weight loss, ankle swelling, inability to swallow, difficulty breathing, and chest pain require urgent medical attention.
Any condition that lowers your immune system’s ability to fight viruses and bacteria may increase your risk for serious complications. These include:
Allergies and asthma can also exacerbate your cough and related symptoms. Persistent coughs should also be monitored in otherwise healthy newborns, infants, and the elderly, as these individuals have a weaker immune system.
In some cases, receiving certain therapies may cause your body to become more susceptible to complications. Medications that weaken your immune system include:
This list is not complete, so if you take any medications, you should speak to a medical professional about whether your current treatment is affecting your ability to fight infections.
Urgent care is recommended if you suffer from a persistent cough and don’t want to wait hours in line at the hospital.
Dr. Chugh can help you get peace of mind and prompt treatment for your cough. For more information, contact us by phone or through online booking to schedule an appointment at our office in Tinley Park, Illinois, today.
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