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When to Seek Medical Care

You usually do not need to call your doctor if you catch a cold. However, if symptoms become severe or you develop the following symptoms, you may have "the flu" virus, bacterial pneumonia, or another illness that should be reported to your doctor:

• Shaking chills

• Profuse sweating

• Muscle aches

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• High fever (greater than 102°F)

For mild-to-moderate cold symptoms, you usually do not need to see a doctor. Almost everything a doctor can prescribe to relieve the symptoms can be purchased without a prescription.

For more severe symptoms or a prolonged duration of symptoms, you should visit your doctor. An office visit will usually be fine. However, if you are extremely ill and seem to be getting worse, go to your closest hospital's emergency department to be seen immediately.