As cold and flu season approaches, you likely have some concerns about your health. The common cold is normal this time of year. The common cold is typically associated with a sore throat, coughing, sneezing, and a runny nose. Different viruses tend to circulate this time of year, so it is always a good idea to get your symptoms checked out at an urgent care clinic or doctor's office. Here are some things you need to know about the common cold.

Antibiotics Do Not Treat the Common Cold

Most all common colds are the result of a virus. A virus does not react to antibiotics and can actually cause more harm than good. Your body will become reliant on the antibiotics which could cause you to get sick again in the near future. Instead, focus on treating your symptoms. You can take over-the-counter medication to help combat a runny nose, treat body aches, and so on.

You Should Seek Medical Care for Your Cold

Even if you have a common cold, it is still a good idea to see a doctor. Your illness may not actually be a cold but the flu or something more serious. Many illnesses are treatable by prescription medications. If your cold symptoms last longer than a week, you need to be tested for other issues you may be experiencing.

You Can Get a Cold Any Time of Year

Even though the fall and winter season is prime time to get a cold, you can get one any time of the year. Springtime is an especially common time to get a cold.

You Can Take Action to Prevent a Cold

A common cold is spread like most viruses. They can be spread through the air and on surfaces. To help prevent a cold or to avoid getting a cold when you have been around someone with cold symptoms, be sure to consistently wash your hands, stay away from a sick person as much as you can, clean off surfaces with hot soapy water, and maintain a healthy diet.

If you have cold symptoms, be sure to take care of yourself. Drink a lot of fluids, rest as much as you can, and take time away from work and school while you exhibit symptoms. If your symptoms continue or become too much to manage on your own, seek out medical care at your nearest urgent care facility or with your doctor as soon as possible to rule out other possible issues. For more information, contact an urgent care clinic near you.