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Common Cold Specialist

Patricia G. Gao, MD

Primary Care Physician located in Glen Burnie, MD

The common cold is typically harmless, although it might not feel that way. Astoundingly, Americans suffer from more than 1 billion colds every year. Dr. Patricia G. Gao is a primary care physician skilled at effectively treating numerous health problems, including the common cold. Dr. Gao serves the residents of Glen Burnie, Maryland at her private practice.

410-760-7333

Common Cold Q&A

What is the common cold?

The common cold is a contagious upper respiratory infection. Viral infections cause approximately 80-90% of common colds. More than 200 different kinds of viruses can cause the common cold.

What are the risk factors associated with the common cold?

Kids younger than the age of 6 are at the greatest risk for succumbing to common colds. This is especially the case if they spend time in daycare settings. If you have a weakened immune system, your odds of getting the common cold increase. Smokers are more likely to get common colds than those who don’t smoke. Both kids and adults get more common colds during the fall and winter months. However, you can succumb to a common cold any time of the year. Being around many people increases your chances of getting this ailment.

What are the symptoms of the common cold?

The uncomfortable symptoms of the common cold include:

Stuffy or runny nose
Sore throat
Congestion
Cough
Sneezing
Low-grade fever
Slight headache
Mild body aches

What are the complications associated with the common cold?

If left untreated, the common cold can cause inflammation and infection of your sinuses, causing a condition referred to as sinusitis. The common cold can also trigger an asthma attack. If the viruses or bacteria that caused your common cold enter the space behind your eardrum, you can suffer an acute ear infection. Other infections associated with this ailment include strep throat, pneumonia, bronchitis, and croup.

How is the common cold treated?

You should always resist the temptation to take an antibiotic too early in the course of your illness. Antibiotics don’t effectively treat cold virus. They shouldn’t be used unless you have an underlying bacterial infection. Dr. Gao treats your symptoms early in the course of your sickness. If necessary, she adds an antibiotic later. If you have a common cold, rest well and drink plenty of water. Wash your hands frequently. Whenever you need to sneeze or cough, cover your nose or mouth with your sleeve. Never sneeze or cough into your hand.

If you feel miserable due to a stubborn, common cold, schedule an appointment with Dr. Gao at her office.

Insurance

We accept the majority of health insurance plans. Please contact our office if you do not see yours listed or have any other questions.

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Testimonials

Words from our patients

"Thorough, listens, takes appropriate time and attention. I searched a very long time for an exceptional primary care physician... Well worth the search!"

Verified Patient
"Dr. Gao and her physician's assistant create a courteous, professional atmosphere... We recommend her to anyone seeking personalized, competent medical treatment."

Stan B.
"Went in to have Taylor draw a blood sample for analysis. It was quick and Taylor is excellent... and fun to talk to. I am not sure I even felt the needle."

Ray M.
"With Dr. Gao and her clinic staff's close monitoring and follow up on my health... I lost 45 pounds. I feel great."

Christopher B.
"She has a very kind demeanor and takes time to listen. She treats the "whole person". She is quick to see me in an emergency. Also her staff is excellent!"

Sharon M.
"I am so glad that my wife recommended Dr. Gao. I look forward to her and her staff providing for my health needs. Very pleasant."

James H.
"Taylor knows how to draw blood! That is such a plus in my book! She is kind, willing always helpful and gets the job done. She is an asset to Dr Gao's practice."

Linda S.
"Staff was very friendly and kind, Dr. Gao was as well. She was patient while i explained my symptoms and was very insightful; definitely would recommend!"

Verified Patient
"Another outstanding visit. Dr. Gao has been a lifesaver for me and my wife for many years."

Walter M.
"Dr. Gao is very kind and insightful. She took the time to talk to me about any and all concerns I had. I would definitely recommend others to her."

Consuela A.
"Easy to get an appointment for my preoperative procedures. Taylor and Dr. Gao are great! Great bedside manner, kind and caring."

Cheri S.
"I just had out-patient surgery at Dr. Gao's office to have a cyst removed. Dr. Gao was very professional as well as her assistant. I felt no discomfort at all."

William M.
"Clean office, friendly staff, hardly any waiting time, Doctor was attentive and thorough. Look forward to my follow up!"

Evette M.
"For those of you who are seeking medical care that provides patient priority services this is the place to go!"

Stanley B.
"Dr. Gao is the best Dr I've ever gone to. Her experience and professionalism is amazing. I would never go to any other doctor."

Sarah S.
"Dr. Gao is thorough, attentive, with an excellent patient awareness that relaxes patients receiving treatment or involved in problem diagnosis."

Verified Patient
"I always have a good experience when I have an appointment with Dr Gao. She is always pleasant, listens to me, and most of all she is a very caring doctor."

Mary B.
"Great service always provided by office personnel. When needed, an appointment is always available... always a pleasant and informative visit with Dr. Gao."

William T.
"My visit was handled efficiently and thoroughly by Dr. Gao and her assistant."

David W.
"Dr. Gao has always shown sincere concern for me and my family and gives us all the best treatment and counseling. I am blessed to have her as our primary care provider."

Gina B.
"I have been with Dr. Gao for 13+ years. She is a patient and caring doctor who will listen to your concerns and take action."

Christopher S.