Cold symptoms can leave you feeling drained, achy, and uncomfortable.
While many colds clear up on their own, some symptoms may linger or worsen, making it hard to go about your day.
At Alamo City Urgent Care, we provide fast, effective urgent care for a cold to help you feel better with no appointment required. Walk in or book ahead to save time.
What is a Cold?
A cold is a viral infection that affects your upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. It’s one of the most common illnesses people experience, especially during colder months.
While generally mild, colds can cause uncomfortable symptoms and worsen without proper care, especially in those with underlying conditions or weakened immune systems.
What Causes a Cold?
Colds are caused by viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most common culprits. These highly contagious viruses spread through respiratory droplets or contact with contaminated surfaces.
Learning how colds spread can help you protect yourself and others.
Viral Infections & Transmission
Most colds spread through the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
You can also catch a cold by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Cold viruses are hardy and can live on surfaces for several hours, making frequent hand washing essential, whether you’re sick or not.
Common Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your risk of catching a cold, including:
- Spending time in crowded places (i.e., schools, offices, or public transport).
- Having close contact with someone who is sick.
- Poor handwashing habits.
- A weakened immune system or chronic health conditions.
Cold Symptoms
Signs of a cold typically appear one to three days after exposure and can vary in intensity.
While most people recover without needing medical attention, it’s important to recognize when symptoms go beyond what’s typical.
Common cold symptoms include:
- Stuffy or runny nose.
- Sneezing.
- Sore throat.
- Cough.
- Congestion.
- Watery eyes.
- Mild body aches or headaches.
- Low-grade fever.
- Fatigue.
If these symptoms persist for more than 10 days or worsen, it may be time to visit urgent care for cold relief.
Stages of a Cold
Understanding the stages of a cold can help you manage your symptoms and know when to seek treatment. Most colds follow a predictable pattern from exposure to recovery.
Incubation Period
The incubation stage of a cold is the time between catching the virus and the first appearance of symptoms. This usually lasts 1 to 3 days. During this phase, you may feel fine but still be contagious.
Peak Symptom Phase
Cold symptoms typically peak between days 2 and 4. During this phase, you may feel most uncomfortable, with increased coughing, congestion, and fatigue. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is key to recovery.
Recovery & Prevention
Most people recover from the common cold within 7 to 10 days. To avoid catching another cold, practice regular handwashing, avoid close contact with those who are sick, and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
Common Cold Treatments & Remedies
While there is no cure for the common cold, there are many ways to manage symptoms and speed up recovery.
At Alamo City Urgent Care, we offer medical and self-care solutions to help you quickly feel better.
Over-the-Counter Medications
For many people wondering how to treat a cold, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can ease discomfort. These include:
- Decongestants to relieve nasal pressure.
- Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for aches and fever.
- Cough suppressants or expectorants for dry or productive coughs.
Our providers can guide you on which medications are safe and effective based on your symptoms.
Home Remedies for Cold Relief
In addition to OTC medications, home remedies can provide added relief. Some helpful tips include:
- Drinking warm fluids like tea or broth.
- Using a humidifier or taking warm, steamy showers.
- Resting and staying hydrated.
- Gargling salt water for a sore throat.
These simple steps can go a long way in supporting your recovery.
When to Seek Urgent Care for a Cold
Sometimes, a cold can turn into something more serious. Visit urgent care if you:
- Have symptoms that last longer than 10 days.
- Experience shortness of breath, ear pain, or chest discomfort.
- Run a fever over 100.4° F.
- Have a compromised immune system.
- Develop signs of a secondary infection (like sinusitis or bronchitis).
Our team is here to provide effective cold treatment and peace of mind with no appointment needed.
Why Choose Alamo City Urgent Care for Cold Treatment?
At Alamo City Urgent Care, we make getting care stress-free and straightforward.
With multiple locations across San Antonio, walk-in availability, and extended hours, we’re here when you need relief the most.
Our experienced providers are ready to assess your cold symptoms, recommend treatment, and help you recover quickly and comfortably.
Here’s why patients choose us:
- Walk in or book ahead to save time.
- Open Monday through Saturday.
- Compassionate, licensed providers.
- Personalized care for all stages of a cold.
Learn more about our approach to coughs, colds, and flu, or explore additional conditions we treat at our clinics.
Don’t wait out a cold that’s making you miserable. Visit Alamo City Urgent Care for quick, expert care today.
