2. If you or your child are feeling ill, it could be tempting to try
to wait it out in hopes of it going away without the need for
antibiotics or other medical treatments. However, some
illnesses won't go away without treatment and could even
become more dangerous and more expensive to treat if
ignored.
Ear pain is one situation that should be treated, especially if it
is a small child suffering or if the problem occurs on a regular
basis. Earaches are caused either by viruses or bacteria. If the
ache is due to a bacteria and lasts for more than two days, a
doctor will likely prescribe an antibiotic. If it is viral, it will
simply have to run its course, but a doctor might be able to
provide ways to ease the pain.
3. If you have a severe cough that won't go away, you should seek
medical treatment because it could be bronchitis. Bronchitis
can be very painful not only for your throat and lungs, but also
for your ribs and abdominal muscles due to the contractions
during coughing. Additionally, it often lowers oxygen intake by
quite a lot, which could be especially dangerous. Although
bronchitis cannot be treated with antibiotics, a doctor will
likely prescribe a steroid, cough suppressant, inhaler and/or
other breathing treatments to help keep you comfortable.
A sore throat might also warrant medical treatment. If it is very
persistent or very painful, you should seek medical attention. It
could be strep throat, which requires antibiotics.
4. Like ear pain, if you have sore throats regularly, you should talk
to your doctor about it. In some cases, he or she will
recommend tonsil removal to fix the issue on a more
permanent basis.
Finally, you might consider seeking medical treatment for the
flu. The flu is caused by a virus and has to run its course, but it
often leads to dehydration, which can make you feel even
worse. Especially if you or your child feel very dehydrated, you
should consider visiting your doctor or an urgent care center to
receive a fluid IV.
5. Always pay attention to your gut when it comes to your health
or the health of your child. Even if you don't think a doctor can
help, you should visit one if the situation doesn't seem to be
fixing itself or if high fevers, vomiting or diarrhea are present.
Click on this link to learn more about illness treatment in San
Diego.