Lydia Speer, DO, UT-Erlanger Primary CareQ: Do I need an antibiotic for the common cold?
A: The common cold is usually a virus characterized by low-grade fever, fatigue, nasal discharge, cough, sore or scratchy throat, mild headache and body aches. Antibiotics are used for bacterial infections and do not work for viral infections. In fact, overuse of antibiotics can cause more harm and lead to more cases of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Over 200 viruses have been associated with the common cold and there is no fast cure. One must rest, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms. Seek medical attention immediately if your temperature is over 100.4 degrees, symptoms last longer than 10 days or symptoms are severe or unusual.
– Lydia Speer, DO, UT-Erlanger Primary Care – East; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society
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