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I do if there is a quick change in symptoms, i.e., my LO went from having no cough to having a heavy wet cough in about 2-3 days, so I took her in (viral bronchitis). I am also quick to take her in when there is an indication that she may have an ear infection (although she has only had 2 in 18 months). And, if the symptoms stick around for 2 weeks (runny nose and a cough), I will take her in when it looks like it's not going to run it's course and clear up on its own.

I am sort of paranoid (and the nanny so they aren't my kids) so if the mom isn't available or is unsure I just call and chat with the nurse. 99 times out of 100 they say treat with saline and maybe X can when if Y happens. So my vote is call the nurse if you're worried but they will probably day don't bother. The other thing to consider is when you're sick your immune system is already weakened so sitting in the sick kid waiting room means you might get something worse.

I normally wait it out unless I think it might also be an ear infection. But if it doesn't clear up within two weeks, I do take them in. Most recently, it turned into sinus infections for my boys.

If I think it's just a cold, I try to wait it out, until some other symptom appears, or they just aren't getting better. the last time I thought DS had just a cold, he ended up having pneumonia...I felt so bad(thankfully we caught it early)