you usually don't need a doctor or an antibiotic when you have a cold. colds are caused by viruses. antibiotics kill bacteria not viruses. but a cold can turn into a sinus infection. if your sinuses become blocked and cannot drain properly you can develop inflammation and a bacterial infection. an ear infection may also result from a bout with a cold. sometimes you need antibiotics to clear the bacterial infections from your body.
should i go to the doctor or get an antibiotic for a cold?