Coughs and Colds

Most coughs and colds are caused by viral infections, and these typically get better on their own within a week or two. It is important to understand when to manage symptoms at home and when to seek medical advice. This guide provides advice to help you decide if you can manage a cough and cold at home or if you need further treatment.

Please check if the Pharmacy Services can help you avoid needing to wait for a GP contact.

When You Can Self-Care

If you have a cough or cold, the following symptoms usually don't require antibiotics and can be managed at home with rest and symptom relief:

• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat
• Cough (often dry or with clear mucus)
• Sneezing
• Mild body aches or fatigue
• Low-grade fever (less than 38°C)

Common cold symptoms usually resolve on their own within 7 to 10 days. In the meantime, you can manage symptoms with over-the-counter medications, such as:

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce pain and fever
• Decongestants (such as nasal sprays or tablets) for a stuffy nose
• Cough syrups or lozenges to soothe your throat

Hydration and rest are also key to recovery. Drink plenty of fluids and get enough sleep.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While most coughs and colds are not serious, there are situations where you should seek medical advice:

1. Symptoms last longer than expected (more than 3 weeks)

2. Severe symptoms like high fever (above 38°C) or difficulty breathing

3. Chest pain or tightness

4. Worsening cough that produces thick, green or yellow mucus (this may indicate a bacterial infection)

5. Worsening shortness of breath or wheezing

6. Recurring or worsening symptoms after initial improvement

7. If you are in a high-risk group, such as:

   • Elderly adults
   • Infants or children under 5
   • Pregnant women
   • People with weakened immune systems (due to conditions such as HIV, cancer treatment, or organ transplant)
   • People with long-term conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease

When Antibiotics May Be Needed

Antibiotics are not effective for viral infections, such as the common cold, but they may be necessary if your symptoms are caused by a bacterial infection. This includes:

• Bacterial sinusitis: If you develop severe facial pain, a high fever, and / or thick, greenish-yellow nasal discharge lasting more than 10 days, you might have a bacterial sinus infection.
• Bacterial throat infections: If you experience a severe sore throat with white spots on the tonsils and a fever, this could indicate streptococcal throat infection (strep throat), which might require antibiotics.
• Chest infections: If your cough is persistent with an elevated temperature and productive with yellow or green mucus, or if you develop chest pain or shortness of breath, you may have pneumonia or acute bronchitis, which might require antibiotics.
• Ear infections: If you have pain or fullness in the ear along with fever and difficulty hearing, an ear infection may be present and antibiotics might be needed. 

Please check if the Pharmacy Services can help you avoid needing to wait for a GP contact.

Key Indicators that Antibiotics May Be Needed:

• High fever (above 38°C) that persists for more than a few days
• Cough with thick, discolored mucus (green or yellow)
• Shortness of breath or chest pain
• Worsening symptoms after initial improvement
• A severe sore throat with difficulty swallowing and fever

General Advice for Managing Symptoms Without Antibiotics:

• Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief and to reduce fever
• Stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, or clear broths
• Rest to help your body recover
• Saltwater gargles for a sore throat
• Humidifiers or a steamy shower can help loosen mucus

When to Contact Your GP or Seek Urgent Care

If you develop any of the following symptoms, it is important to seek medical help:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or tightness in the chest
• Persistent high fever (above 38°C)
• Severe headaches, swelling, or vision changes
• Coughing up blood
• Symptoms of pneumonia or severe bronchitis, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or very thick, colored mucus

For further guidance, you can contact NHS 111, visit your GP, or go to an urgent care center if necessary.

Resources for Further Information:

• NHS Choices: Offers comprehensive advice on managing a cold and when to seek help. Visit NHS website.

Remember, antibiotics should only be prescribed when necessary. Overuse can contribute to antibiotic resistance, making it harder to treat infections in the future. Always follow medical advice regarding antibiotic use.