Cold & Flu Urgent Care Treatment for Patients in Connecticut, Massachusetts & New York
Experiencing symptoms of a cold or the flu can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for prompt treatment and relief. At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, we offer on-demand care for colds and influenza (the flu) at our locations throughout Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York. All of our centers feature on-site labs, so if we determine that you need flu testing, we’ll have definitive PCR results back to you the same day. Plus, our urgent care locations are open 7 days per week with extended hours for your convenience.
Cold Symptoms vs. Flu Symptoms
It can be difficult to distinguish between the common cold and the flu—both of which are contagious respiratory illnesses caused by viruses—and that’s why it’s so important to consult with a trained medical provider when you’re feeling ill. Both a cold and the flu can cause the following symptoms:
- Congestion
- Sneezing
- A sore throat
- Coughing
- Chest discomfort
- Weakness
- Fatigue
With that said, flu symptoms tend to develop much more suddenly than cold symptoms, and they’re usually considerably more severe. The flu is also more likely to cause a fever, chills, a headache, fatigue, and achiness, while colds are more likely to produce a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat.
Where to Go for Cold & Flu Treatment
So, now that you’ve determined whether you have a common cold or the flu, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. Is it time to visit your primary care physician? Should you head straight to the emergency room? Or can you simply walk into your nearest urgent care center? Depending on your symptoms, one of these options may be a better choice for you than the others.
Primary Care
If you have mild cold or flu symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, or cough) that do not require urgent medical attention, you may want to turn to your primary care provider for guidance on home care and symptom management. Individuals with chronic medical conditions should also maintain regular communication with their primary care provider, especially during cold and flu season. Your PCP can provide personalized recommendations and ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your overall health needs.
Urgent Care
If your cold or flu symptoms are mild to moderate, urgent care may be the best choice for you. Symptoms such as high fever, severe body aches, or persistent cough warrant medical evaluation. Keep in mind that certain populations, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions, are at higher risk of developing complications from cold and flu viruses. If you or a loved one falls into one of these categories and experiences flu-like symptoms, urgent care can provide timely evaluation and treatment.
Emergency Care
Severe cold and flu symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, or sudden dizziness, require immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate a serious complication and must be addressed by an emergency medical professional as soon as possible.
What Will Treatment Look Like?
When you visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care for cold or flu treatment, we’ll determine exactly what’s causing your symptoms and then recommend the course of treatment that’s most appropriate for your specific needs. Antiviral medications may be prescribed to shorten the duration and severity of flu symptoms, especially when started within the first 48 hours of illness. Our urgent care providers can assess your condition and determine if antiviral treatment is appropriate.
Cold & Flu Urgent Care When You Need It Most
At PhysicianOne Urgent Care, we are proud to provide fast, friendly, and professional care when and where patients want it. We have numerous locations across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York, and you can choose whether to book online in advance or simply walk in at the time that’s best for you. Or, if you’d rather speak to a local provider remotely, you can do so anytime using our 24/7 telemedicine service. We look forward to helping you find relief from your cold or flu symptoms.
