It’s important to stay vigilant and talk to your doctor about antibiotics if symptoms last for a while. Viruses can morph into things like sinus infections or increase the risk of middle ear infections, which may result in you developing a bacterial infection as well.
Thin and clear mucus is more likely to be a viral infection. Dark, greenish mucus is more likely to be a bacterial infection. However, mucus color is not a 100% accurate indicator of whether you have a viral or bacterial infection. Make sure to weigh in other factors. [4] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source
For example, white spots are generally caused by bacteria. A sore throat without other symptoms, such as a runny nose or sneezing, may be a bacterial infection such as strep throat. [5] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
The normal human body temperature runs between 97. 8° F (36. 5°C) and 99°F (37. 2°C). [7] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
Keep in mind that there are treatment options for the flu if you are diagnosed and your symptoms started within two days of being diagnosed. Make sure to contact your doctor’s office about your symptoms during flu season. [10] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
If you believe your child has an upper respiratory infection, take them to see a doctor.
In some cases, other viral infections could lead to a bacterial infection. Any illness that lingers for more than a couple of weeks should be evaluated by a doctor.
Urinating less than three times in 24 hours Difficulty breathing No improvement over three to five days Worsening of symptoms, or severe symptoms If you or a member of your household has a compromised immune system, you should be seen sooner to prevent complications.
The only way to know for sure if you have a viral or bacterial infection is to get evaluated and discuss options with your doctor. A doctor will collect mucus or do a throat swab and send the sample to a lab. Your doctor may want to test you for a bacterial infection if they believe you would benefit from antibiotics. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
If you are prescribed an antibiotic, ask your doctor about which over-the-counter pain medications are safe to use with your antibiotics.
A flu shot will not protect from all viruses or bacteria. While it reduces your risk, you may still get sick. Many people qualify for pneumonia vaccinations as well. Make sure to discuss this with your doctor. [18] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Inform your doctor or your healthcare provider in the emergency department if you or your child has not had routine immunizations. You might have an uncommon virus, like whooping cough or the measles, and will need to take special precautions for yourself and others.
