I have been coughing and sneezing for the past five days and the doctor diagnosed common cold. While I want to use some antibiotics, the doctor is against the idea. Kindly direct me on the right thing to do.
Nafiz (by SMS)
Common cold symptoms include sneezing, coughing, a sore throat and a blocked or runny nose. If fever is present, it is usually mild. Since the Common cold is caused by viruses, the ailment usually disappears with or without treatment in about 7 days. However, self-care measures and over-the-counter medicines can be helpful in relieving symptoms, and make the patient more comfortable. Prescription medicines such as antibiotics are generally not needed for simple colds, except when complications such as secondary infections which may require further treatment set in. Green or yellow mucus may come from the nose which shows that the immune system is fighting the infection. It does not necessarily mean that your cold is getting worse or that you have a bacterial infection and need antibiotics.