Cold: More Than Just Sniffles

Understanding the Common Cold at Afterhours Urgent Care Center

The common cold, a frequent visitor in our lives, is far more than just an inconvenience. It’s the leading reason behind missed school for kids and lost workdays for adults, impacting millions annually. At Afterhours Urgent Care Center, we see the common cold not just as a widespread health issue but as an opportunity to provide compassionate, timely care outside of typical clinic hours.

Rhinovirus is the most common cause, accounting for 10 to 40 percent of colds. Other common cold viruses include coronavirus and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). A cold may last for about one week, but some colds last longer, especially in children, the elderly and those in poor health.
Cold: More Than Just Sniffles

Common colds, often stemming from over 200 virus types, can disrupt your daily routine. The rhinovirus is notably the most common culprit. While generally mild, causing slight discomfort and a few days of downtime, colds can escalate into more severe secondary infections like bronchitis, pneumonia, or sinus and ear infections – particularly in young children. At Afterhours, we’re ready to address these complications, ensuring your peace of mind extends well into the night.

Symptoms at a Glance
Recognizing a cold’s progression is key to managing it effectively:

  • Early Stage (1-3 Days):
    Look out for a sore throat, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, and mild aches.
  • Middle Stage (4-7 Days):
    This is when symptoms peak with sneezing, congestion, coughing, and occasionally a mild fever, especially in children.
  • End Stage (8-10 Days):
    Most colds wind down, leaving behind a cough, congestion, and lingering fatigue.

Persisting symptoms beyond ten days or worsening signs may indicate a secondary infection. In such cases, our expert team at Afterhours Urgent Care Center is here to help, even when other clinics are closed.

Critical Reminder: If previously diagnosed with severe allergies and you notice anaphylactic symptoms, it’s imperative to dial 911 promptly. Utilize your epinephrine auto-injector, such as an EpiPen®, if you have one. Severe allergic reactions always demand emergency room attention.

Navigating Cold Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing a Cold
Colds are diagnosed based on symptoms, as specific tests for the virus are generally unnecessary. Our experienced medical professionals at Afterhours are adept at identifying and advising on the best course of action for your cold symptoms.

Treating the Common Cold
While antibiotics can’t cure viral colds, several remedies can ease the discomfort:

  • Rest and hydration are crucial.

  • Saline sprays or nasal rinses can clear nasal passages.

  • Gargling warm salt water helps soothe a sore throat.

  • Humidifiers add moisture to the air, aiding in symptom relief.

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can alleviate aches and fever. Always consult with healthcare providers before starting new medications.

Preventing Colds
Prevention is key, especially during peak cold and flu seasons. Simple steps like frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and not touching your face can significantly reduce your chances of catching a cold. Additionally, staying home and practicing good hygiene if you are sick can help prevent the spread of illness.

Differentiating Between Colds, Flu, and COVID-19

It’s crucial to understand the differences between colds, flu, and COVID-19, as they share many symptoms but require different approaches to care. At Afterhours Urgent Care Center, we offer guidance and testing to help distinguish these conditions, ensuring you receive the appropriate care.

If you suspect COVID-19, our qualified professionals are here to provide evaluations, testing, and the latest treatments like Paxlovid for eligible patients. We prioritize timely, accurate care to get you back on your feet.

SYMPTOMS Cold Flu
HEADACHE Normal Normal
TIREDNESS Somewhat to Moderate Severe to Moderate
SYMPTOM ONSET Over a few days Appears suddenly
SNEEZING Normal Rarely
FEVER Rarely Generally Present
CHILLS Rarely Normal
ACHES Minor, aches and pains Extreme, aches and pains
STUFFY NOSE Normal Rarely
COUGHING Often produces mucus rarely, produces mucus

Visit Us for Comprehensive Cold Care
Your health journey matters to us, day and night. Whether it’s managing a common cold or navigating more serious complications, Afterhours Urgent Care Center is your reliable healthcare partner, ready to serve when others are closed.

Avoid The ER Wait Times

Emergencies Services Open Late

Emergencies Don’t Stick to a 9 to 5 Schedule,
Neither Do We!

Emergencies Don’t Stick to a 9 to 5 Schedule,
Neither Do We!

Our Urgent Care Centers Are here for you during the afternoon through the twilight hours. Saving you a trip to the ER when your primary care provider goes home to the their family.

Our Service Hours

Days: Hours:
Mon-Thurs 6 pm – 1 am
Friday 5 pm – 2 am
Saturday and Sunday 2 pm – 2 am
BOOKING FORM AREA
Modern and Update To Date Clinical Services

Why Afterhours Care?

At Afterhours Urgent Care Center, we embrace those unanticipated moments that fall outside the confines of traditional healthcare schedules. We present ourselves as a beacon of hope during the late nights and early mornings, ensuring that the community’s health needs don’t have to wait until dawn. Recognizing the challenges of crowded emergency rooms, we bring you timely, affordable, and expert medical care whenever you need it.

Every minute counts when you’re in distress. Our Urgent Care extends beyond typical treatments, ensuring that minor injuries and common illnesses are addressed with the utmost precision and care. From sprains to respiratory infections, our skilled team is equipped to manage a wide range of medical conditions that don’t warrant an ER visit, but also can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment. We’re the bridge between primary care and emergency rooms, available when most others aren’t.

Spacious and comfortable waiting area of After Hours Urgent Care with seating and children's play section.

Illness Services:

Emergencies don’t stick to a standard schedule – and neither do illnesses.

Injury Services:

Accidents don’t announce their arrival, but when they happen…

Wellness and Prevention:

At Afterhours Urgent Care Center, we believe in proactive health.

Work-Related Services:

Workplace and medical challenges tackled with ease.

Pediatric Urgent Care:

Urgent Pediatric care available, in the hours it matters most.

Calliope Med Spa Services:

Awaken your healthy and beautiful nature with our treatments.

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Avoid Long Wait TImes and Cost of ER Services!

Savings Compared To ER Out Of Pocket Pricing:
95%
Savings Via Most Insurance VS Average Insurance Co-Pays at the ER.
88%
Shorter Wait Times on Average Than Your Local ER Health System:

Meet Our Clinical Team

We offer an alternative to no insurance pricing with our self-pay pricing packages.
Dr. Jane Doe

Clinician: Pineville Location