Fever & Cold Symptoms — Online Consultation & Treatment
Get professional medical care for fever and cold symptoms. Speak to qualified UK clinicians online with same-day appointments and expert advice.
- Professional online consultation and treatment advice
- Same-day prescriptions when appropriate
- Secure video consultations from home
Secure Telehealth Platform Trusted by Over 150,000 Patients
What are Fever and Cold Symptoms?
Fever is an elevated body temperature, usually indicating that your body is fighting an infection. Cold symptoms include runny nose, congestion, cough, and sore throat. These are common presenting issues that can be caused by viral or bacterial infections and often occur together.
Common Symptoms
- Elevated body temperature (above 38°C/100.4°F)
- Chills and shivering
- Runny or blocked nose
- Cough (dry or productive)
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Body aches and fatigue
- Loss of appetite
Common Causes
- Viral infections (common cold, flu)
- Bacterial infections
- COVID-19
- Seasonal allergies
- Environmental irritants
- Stress and fatigue
- Other underlying infections
- Immune system response
How Our Online Consultation Can Help
- Assess severity of symptoms and fever
- Determine if symptoms are viral or bacterial
- Prescribe appropriate medications when needed
- Provide advice on symptom management
- Advise on when to seek emergency care
- Monitor progress through follow-up consultations
Home Care
- Rest and get plenty of sleep
- Stay well hydrated with fluids
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever
- Gargle with warm salt water for sore throat
- Use a humidifier or breathe steam
- Eat light, nutritious foods
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
Medical Treatments
- Prescription fever reducers
- Antibiotics (if bacterial infection confirmed)
- Cough suppressants or expectorants
- Decongestants
- Throat sprays and lozenges
- Antiviral medications (in specific cases)
Commonly Prescribed Medications
Paracetamol
Effective fever reducer and pain reliever
Ibuprofen
Anti-inflammatory fever reducer
Amoxicillin
Antibiotic for bacterial infections
Guaifenesin
Expectorant to help clear chest congestion
When to Seek Urgent Care
- High fever above 39.5°C (103°F)
- Fever lasting more than 3 days
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Severe headache or neck stiffness
- Persistent vomiting
- Signs of dehydration
- Fever in infants under 3 months
- Worsening symptoms despite treatment
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention by calling 999 or visiting your nearest A&E.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I be concerned about a fever?
Seek medical advice for high fever (over 39.5°C), fever lasting more than 3 days, or if accompanied by severe symptoms like difficulty breathing.
Should I take medication to reduce fever?
Mild fever helps fight infection, but you can take paracetamol or ibuprofen for comfort, especially if fever is high or causing distress.
How long do cold symptoms typically last?
Most cold symptoms resolve within 7-10 days. If symptoms persist longer or worsen, consider seeking medical advice.
Can I go to work with a fever?
No, you should stay home with a fever to rest and avoid spreading infection to others. Return to work when fever-free for 24 hours.
Do I need antibiotics for cold symptoms?
Most colds are viral and don't require antibiotics. Our clinicians can assess if bacterial infection is likely and antibiotics are needed.
How can I prevent getting colds and flu?
Wash hands frequently, avoid close contact with sick people, get flu vaccination, maintain good health with adequate sleep and nutrition.
Medically Reviewed by: Mohammed Hassan - Independent Prescriber
Last Updated: January 2025