“Don’t worry it’s just a cold.” How many times have you or someone you know said that? We usually associate sneezing, couching, congestion and several other symptoms with the common cold or allergies, but when does it turn from a cold into something more?There are several things to keep an eye out for to help understand when it isn’t “just a cold."  Check out the five signs you need to know.

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    1

    It Lasts for More Than 4 Days

    The common cold usually works its way out of your system in about 3-4 days so if you are sick longer than that it is a clear sign it could be something more serious.

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    2

    Returning Symptoms

    If your symptoms have gone away but returned it is clear that it is more than a cold and could be something like the flu.

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    3

    Body Aches

    Most people disregard this symptom as something related to a cold but that is not true. Body aches are a clear sign that you have something more serious than a cold and a trip to the doctors is needed.

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    4

    You Recently Left the Country

    There are plenty of diseases that you can get after a big trip that would not be common in the U.S. so if you aren't feeling well after a big trip let your doctor know where you've been so he can identify the disease properly.

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    5

    Severe Headaches

    It is true that the common cold can give you a headache but these are typically mild. If your headache is severe or it leads to a migraine, it is time to see the doctor.

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