Freiburg, Germany Persistent colds can lead to serious infections if they are not treated properly, according to Michael Deeg, spokesman for the German Professional Association of Ear, Nose and Throat Specialists. "Anything that lasts between 10 and 14 days is suspicious," warns Deeg.
Even sniffles can lead to a case of sinusitis, bronchitis or even to a lung infection.
Depending on the degree of the infection, decongestants such as ear and nose drops or antibiotics may have to be prescribed, according to Deeg who works as a doctor in the south-western German city of Freiburg.
It's important to keep an eye on the length of time a cold persists.
Deeg says common indicators that a cold is about to develop into something more serious are persistent coughing, worsening catarrh as well as ongoing headache and jaw-pain.
When the symptoms reach that level, the next step is to visit the doctor.
"In many cases people take no notice of the symptoms and they lead to further complications," he says.
Deeg advises against going outdoors in early spring wearing a T- shirt - no matter how sunny the weather may be.
"Anyone who does that can expect to get a cold," says Deeg.
