Though there’s not much that can be done when a person has a common cold, certain people suffer more and other conditions may put their health at greater risk. Colds that linger longer than 10 days may be an indication that something else is wrong. When you’re in doubt, contact Dr. Mirela Mircea and Dr. Vivian Lugo-Eschenwald of Family Medicine Associates of Alexandria in Alexandria, Virginia to schedule an exam.
A cold is a viral infection of the nose and throat. No matter how it may feel when you have a cold, the condition is typically harmless. Children under age 6 have the greatest risk of catching a cold, as their young immune systems continue to develop. Two or 3 colds a year aren’t unusual for a healthy adult. Symptoms last about 7-10 days, though some people, such as smokers, may find recovery takes longer. When cold symptoms hang on for 14 days, schedule an appointment with FMAA.
Though individual cases may vary, the common cold usually includes:
Medical attention may be necessary when a fever exceeds 101.3 Fahrenheit, or 38.5 Celsius, lasts for more than 5 days or returns later as a person tries to recover from a cold. Severe sore throat pain, headache, or sinus pain may require further treatment. Shortness of breath or wheezing could indicate other problems.
Typically, a child’s cold doesn’t require a doctor’s visit. However, call FMAA immediately if any of these conditions occur:
In rare cases, a cold may trigger secondary conditions. These include acute ear infections, asthma attacks, acute sinusitis from colds of unusually long duration, and other disorders, such as strep throat, croup, or pneumonia, all of which need medical treatment.
We accept most major insurances. Please see the full list of plans that we accept. If you do not see yours, please call our office to see how we can help. We will file out of network insurances but visit must be paid at checkout in full.
"Fantastic doctors & staff; they take the time to truly understand patients and put them at ease. The doctors do a great job giving you their rationale..."
"She has a phenomenal, empathetic bedside manner; I never feel rushed, she asks lots of questions, and makes me an active participant in decisions about my care."
"Had my first visit there a month or so ago. It went exactly as I wanted. I waited only a few minutes, the staff was professional. They answered all of my questions."
"...FMAA has been a loyal and consistent part of my family staying healthy while overcoming a myriad of different issues."
"I'm usually really uncomfortable with doctors offices, but the staff here is all very friendly...Billing was really easy- they have online payment..."
"I have been trying to find a good doctor for many years. My first visit here was excellent. Professional and courteous..."
"Dr. Vivian Lugo is a very professional - ethics, knowledge and experience. She has been my primary physician for 11 years...She is the best!"
"Dr. Vivian Lugo is a very caring and professional MD. The feeling of being listened to and care for is achieved when seeing Dr Lugo. She is thorough and clear..."
"I've been going to Family Medicine for three years. Usually can get an appointment with Dr. Mircea within a week..."
