Respiratory Problems, Age 12 and Older
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
Do you have a runny nose?
See significance of a runny nose if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.
Yes Have you had thick yellow nasal drainage for 24 hours or longer and feel worse than you would expect?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Have you had thick yellow nasal drainage for 5 days or longer?
Yes Do you have a runny nose, persistent sneezing, and watery eyes without other cold symptoms?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: March 26, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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