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Common Cold

Procedure Overview

This occurs when exposure to a virus results in a runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and coughing. It is also called infectious nasopharyngitis.

How Are These Numbers Calculated?

The cost information on this website is estimated and is based on roughly 67.6 million claims from a set of insurers and their reported negotiated rates with providers. These estimates are trended to and considered valid through July 1, 2019 based upon claims paid between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2017.

Cost Overview

National Average

$ 77

Florida State Average

73

Our prices are estimates based on an average and may not be your actual costs. Your costs may be higher or lower for a number of reasons, including insurance deductibles, how sick you are, or other factors.

Cost Breakdowns

Our estimated cost information is not a guarantee of payment or benefits. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than the estimate.

Common Cold

This procedure includes the following steps and procedures. Costs are broken out by step.

STEP 1
Office Visit

A visit with a primary care physician to evaluate your cold and determine the best course of treatment

NATIONAL

$ 77

State ()

NA

TOTAL

NATIONAL

$ 77

State ()

What to Expect

Before you see your health care provider, learn more about this procedure, treatment or test. Remember that individual treatment plans and patient experiences may vary. This information is provided to help you understand what may happen during your visit or treatment.

About this Procedure

Your provider may perform a physical exam that focuses on the ears, nose, throat, and airways.

  • Allergy skin and blood tests
  • Blood tests
  • Sputum culture and throat culture
  • X-rays of the sinuses and chest x-ray

Test that may be done include:

How to Prepare

Sometimes there are things you can do that may positively affect your outcome. Here are some examples. Be sure to follow any instructions given to you by your provider.

On the Day of the Procedure

  • Get plenty of rest and drink fluids.
  • Over-the-counter cold and cough medicines may help ease symptoms in adults and older children. They do not make your cold go away faster, but can help you feel better. Over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medicines are not recommended for children under age 4.
  • Antibiotics should not be used to treat a common cold.
  • Many alternative treatments have been tried for colds, such as vitamin C, zinc supplements, and echinacea. Talk to your health care provider before trying any herbs or supplements.

What to Ask

To get the best quality of care, be informed! Don’t be afraid to ask for a clearer explanation or to ask questions. Consider these topics when talking with your provider.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

  • What are the symptoms of a cold? What are the symptoms of the flu? How can I tell them apart?
  • Will I have a fever? How high? How long will it last? Can a high fever be dangerous?
  • Will I have a cough? Sore throat? Runny nose? Headache? Other symptoms? How long will these symptoms last? Will I be tired or achy?
  • How will I know if I have an ear infection?
  • How will I know if I have pneumonia?
  • How will I know if I have H1N1 flu or another type of flu?
  • Can I make other people sick? How can I prevent that? What should I do if I have a young child at home? How about somebody who is older?
  • When will I start to feel better?
  • What should I eat or drink? How much?
  • What medicines can I buy to help with my symptoms?
  • Can I take aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)? How about acetaminophen (Tylenol)? How about cold medicines?
  • Can my doctor prescribe stronger medicines to help improve my symptoms?
  • Can I take vitamins or herbs to make my cold or flu go away quicker? How do I know if they are safe?
  • Will antibiotics make my symptoms go away faster?
  • Are there other medicines that can make the flu go away faster?
  • How can I keep from getting a cold or the flu?
  • Should I get a flu shot? What time of year should I get one?
  • Do I need one or two flu shots every year? What are the risks of the flu shot? What are the risks for me if I do not get a flu shot?
  • Does the regular flu shot protect against swine flu?
  • Is a flu shot safe for me if I am pregnant?
  • Will a flu shot keep me from getting colds all year long?
  • Can smoking or being around smokers cause me to get the flu more easily?
  • Can I take vitamins or herbs to prevent the flu?

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