Flu, COVID-19, RSV, common colds, and other respiratory illnesses can produce overlapping symptoms. A cough or fever may be mild and short-lived, or it may be the first sign that someone needs medical evaluation. The useful question is not only what symptoms you have, but how severe they are, how they are changing, and whether you have factors that increase your risk of complications.

“A cough, fever, and fatigue can happen with several respiratory illnesses, so one symptom usually does not tell the whole story,” said Harper Price, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, family nurse practitioner at Concho Medical Clinic. “Pay attention to whether you are improving, staying the same, or getting worse. If something does not feel right, or an illness is making another health condition harder to manage, call us. It is better to ask early than wait for symptoms to become severe.”

Start with the pattern of symptoms

Flu often begins suddenly. Symptoms can include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue. Not everyone with flu has a fever. Other respiratory illnesses can look similar, which is why self-diagnosis based on one symptom can be unreliable.

If symptoms are mild but concerning, or if you have questions about treatment, call Concho Medical Clinic. People at higher risk of complications should contact a healthcare professional early because some treatments are most useful when started promptly.

Watch whether the illness is improving or changing

Many respiratory illnesses improve with rest, fluids, and appropriate supportive care. Contact a healthcare professional when symptoms are worsening, not improving as expected, or making it difficult to manage an existing condition. A fever or cough that improves and then returns or worsens also deserves attention.

Testing and imaging can help guide the next step

Symptoms alone may not provide a complete answer. Concho Medical Clinic offers on-site flu testing when appropriate. When broader testing or imaging is ordered, Concho County Hospital provides clinical laboratory services and diagnostic imaging, including digital X-ray and CT.

“The role of a rural hospital is not limited to emergency care, stabilization, and primary care, but more broadly to include services that make life convenient and efficient so our families and professionals can go about their lives. So we make strategic investments in skilled, experienced healthcare staff as well as equipment and other resources to ensure we fulfill that vision,” said Robert A. Pascasio, MS, LFACHE, CEO of Concho County Hospital District.

With imaging equipment, Concho County Hospital eliminates the need for travel for essential diagnostic imaging. It’s another way rural hospitals are helping rural families live and work without the hassle of travel to San Angelo, Abilene, Austin or San Antonio.

Some warning signs require immediate care

Seek emergency care for severe or life-threatening symptoms. Warning signs can include difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, seizures, severe weakness or unsteadiness, significant dehydration, or symptoms that improve and then return much worse. Warning signs may look different in infants and children. Any symptom that is severe or deeply concerning should be evaluated promptly.

Call 911 for a medical emergency. The Emergency Department at Concho County Hospital is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Reduce spread while you recover

When you are sick, stay home and away from others when possible. Wash your hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, improve indoor airflow when practical, and take added precautions around older adults, infants, pregnant people, and people with chronic medical conditions.

Keep chronic conditions in the conversation

Respiratory illness can make asthma, diabetes, heart disease, chronic lung disease, and other conditions harder to manage. Continue medications as directed and contact your healthcare professional if your usual symptoms or health measurements change.

Respiratory illness season is common. Serious symptoms are not something to dismiss as “just what is going around.” Pay attention to how your illness is changing and reach out when you need help.

For medical care, call Concho Medical Clinic at 325-869-9250.