Cold, Flu & COVID-19 Care in Raleigh, NC
When a cough, fever, or sore throat hits, you want answers and relief. Right Care Family Medicine in Raleigh, NC, offers same-day sick visits so you can be seen by a family medicine provider and leave with a clear plan to feel better.
What Are Colds, Flu, and COVID-19?
Colds, influenza (flu), and COVID-19 are respiratory infections caused by viruses. They share many symptoms, but flu and COVID-19 are more likely to cause fever, body aches, and more serious illness. Testing can help tell them apart, which matters because some treatments for flu and COVID-19 work best when started early.
Common Symptoms
Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:
- Cough and sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fever or chills
- Body aches and headache
- Fatigue
- Loss of taste or smell (more common with COVID-19)
- Nausea or diarrhea, especially in children
How These Illnesses Spread
These viruses spread through droplets when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks, and by touching surfaces and then your face. Older adults, young children, pregnant people, and people with chronic conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease are at higher risk of complications. Staying up to date on recommended vaccines, washing your hands, and staying home when sick all help lower the spread.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Schedule a visit if your symptoms are severe, last longer than 10 days, improve and then get worse, or if you’re at higher risk of complications. Early testing can help guide treatment. Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, or signs of dehydration.
What to Expect
01
Quick Evaluation
We review your symptoms and history and examine your lungs, throat, and ears.
02
Testing When Helpful
We may test for flu, COVID-19, or strep to understand what’s causing your illness.
03
Relief & Next Steps
We recommend treatment, discuss antiviral medication when appropriate, and explain warning signs to watch for at home.
Why Choose Right Care Family Medicine for Sick Visits?
- Same-day sick visits so you don’t have to wait days to be seen
- Care from a family medicine practice that knows your health history
- Clear advice on symptom relief and when to follow up
- Medicare, Medicaid, and most major insurance plans accepted
Related Conditions & Services
Breathing symptoms can also come from asthma and allergies. Sick visits are part of our acute and same-day care, and staying current on recommended vaccines is part of primary and preventive care.
Your Provider for Sick Visits
Dr. Jessica Wright, MD, MPH, is a board-certified family physician with more than ten years of clinical experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colds, Flu & COVID-19
How can I tell if I have a cold, the flu, or COVID-19?
The symptoms overlap a lot. Flu and COVID-19 are more likely to cause fever and body aches, and COVID-19 may cause loss of taste or smell. Testing is the most reliable way to know.
Do I need antibiotics?
Antibiotics don’t work against viruses like colds, flu, or COVID-19. We prescribe them only if we find a bacterial infection, such as strep throat, that needs treatment.
When should I come in for a sick visit?
Come in if you’re at higher risk of complications, your symptoms are severe or not improving after about 10 days, or you feel better and then get worse. If you’re unsure, call us and we’ll help you decide.
Feeling Sick? Let’s Help You Feel Better.
Call our office to ask about a same-day sick visit, or request an appointment online.