Cold is a common viral infection. It affects millions of people every year. The symptoms of a cold usually include a runny nose, cough, sore throat, and fever. Most colds are not severe and go away in a week or two.

However, there are some warning signs that your cold may be more serious than you think. Here are four warning signs to watch out for:.

1. High Fever

A high fever is one of the warning signs that your cold may be more serious than you think. A fever is usually defined as a body temperature higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit.

If your fever is higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit, it could be a sign that your infection has become more severe and has spread to other parts of your body. You should seek medical attention if your fever persists for more than three days or if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.

2. Severe Coughing

Coughing is a common symptom of a cold. However, if your cough becomes severe and is accompanied by wheezing or shortness of breath, it could be a sign that your cold has become more serious.

This could be a result of a secondary infection, such as bronchitis or pneumonia. If your cough persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should see a doctor immediately.

3. Chest Pain

Chest pain is not a common symptom of a cold. If you experience chest pain while you have a cold, it could be a sign of a more serious condition such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

The pain could be a result of inflammation of the lining of the lungs or of the tissues surrounding the heart. If you experience chest pain while you have a cold, you should seek medical attention immediately.

4. Fatigue

Fatigue is a common symptom of a cold. However, if your fatigue persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain, it could be a sign of a more serious condition.

This could include complications resulting from the cold such as pneumonia or bronchitis. You should seek medical attention if your fatigue persists for more than a week or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Conclusion

If you experience any of these warning signs while you have a cold, you should seek medical attention immediately.

In general, it is important to monitor your symptoms and pay attention to any changes that indicate your infection is becoming more serious. With proper treatment, most people with colds will recover without complications.