Coughs & Colds

Common colds are infections of the respiratory tract. Symptoms can include sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, a sore throat and coughing. Green or yellow mucus may come from the nose. It is a sign that the immune system is fighting the infection and does not mean the cold is getting worse. Fever is generally mild when it does occur.Common colds may aggravate ongoing medical conditions (e.g. asthma or diabetes).

Some serious diseases may initially appear like a cold or flu but may require urgent medical attention. The best thing to do is to see your doctor if the symptoms come on suddenly, are severe or last longer than usual.

See your doctor if you or your child develops any of the following:

  • temperature higher than 38.5 oC or chills
  • neck stiffness
  • severe headache
  • light hurting the eyes
  • chest pain
  • shortness of breath, noisy or fast breathing or difficulty breathing
  • a skin rash
  • pale or mottled skin
  • vomiting
  • difficulty waking up or unusual drowsiness
  • persistent cough
  • aching muscles

OR if your child or baby has any of the following:

  • bulging of the fontanelle (soft spot on top of the baby's head)
  • a high temperature (in babies under 6 months of age)
  • excessive irritability
  • a strange, high-pitched cry
  • lack of energy
  • loss of appetite/not drinking/feeding poorly
  • earache.

At this point it may be a good time to ensure your child's immunisations are up to date.

Your doctor can check the severity of the illness, tell you how long it may last, give advice on treatment and provide a medical certificate for work, school, university or exams if needed.

If you have any concerns, please see our Doctors at Ferny Grove Family Practice.

For an appointment please call 07 3351 8593 or book an appointment online.