AFC Urgent Care Hixson Blog on AFC Urgent Care Hixson Blog

How Can I Avoid Getting Sick This Season?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 11:05:14 UTC

‘Tis the season for all of the fun seasonal gatherings, holiday traditions and delicious food! The holidays are here, and we are so excited about it. While we are all busy planning for the upcoming parties and other seasonal events, getting sick in the thick of it all is always a possibility.

A single infection at this time of year could spread throughout your entire family and make everyone really sick, causing you to miss out on the best traditions and the most fun family events.

We don’t want that to happen to you! Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team offers up some ways to stay healthy below, so read on to learn more.

How Do Infections Spread?

Many different infections spread quickly through dense populations. Since we are all spending much more time closer together and indoors at this time of year, the risk of contracting an infection skyrockets during the holidays. Each party you attend and each social gathering can introduce new infections to you (and eventually your family).

While you can’t 100% guarantee that you won’t get sick over the holidays, taking care of yourself can go a long ways toward staying healthy. Eat healthy meals, exercise regularly and get enough sleep. Seven to nine hours of quality sleep is essential for adults, as this sleep can help bolster your immune system against pesky infections.

Tips for Staying Healthy

Bundle up when it is cold outside.
Get your flu vaccine.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Wear your seatbelt while traveling.

Should I Be Concerned About Foodborne Illnesses?

Any family gathering or holiday party is going to involve food, that’s just a fact. While you may be the designated cookie baker or know how to perfect the turkey every year, the risk of contracting a foodborne illness is always present. Bacteria can start to grow on perishable foods quickly and could make your entire party sick within a few days.

If you are in charge of making any of the food, be sure to cook any meat to the recommended temperature and serve your meal as soon as everything is ready. Store leftovers promptly, and throw out any food that has been sitting out for more than two hours.

Safe Kitchen Tips

Use designated cutting boards for raw meat and produce.
Wash hands before handling food.
Don’t cook for others when you aren’t feeling well.
Understand specific allergies or dietary restrictions for those attending your party.

We wish you a safe and happy holiday season! Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson if you aren’t feeling well.

Does RSV Always Cause Respiratory Distress?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 10:06:54 UTC

RSV can seem like a scary virus, and sometimes it is! RSV can infect anyone at any time, but the fall and winter months tend to experience higher caseloads because everyone is inside and spending more time closer together.

Most adults will only experience mild symptoms when infected with RSV, but children and infants can have a much harder time overcoming the illness.

Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about RSV and the warning signs to watch for that should prompt urgent medical attention.

Does RSV Spread Quickly?

Yes, unfortunately. RSV is a highly contagious viral infection that is transmitted through airborne particles or through direct contact with the virus. Uncovered coughs and sneezes can cause you to get sick as well as from something simple like a kiss from an infected person. Because of this, we really recommend that you limit who can kiss and cuddle your newborn or infant during the fall and winter seasons.

While preventing illness isn’t a complete guarantee at this time of year, be mindful about spending time in large crowds or around sick individuals. Stay home, wash your hands and avoid touching your face as much as possible.

Beginning Stages of RSV

Fever
Runny nose/congestion
Shallow breathing
Cough
Muscle or body aches

Why Does RSV Cause Breathing Trouble?

RSV is an upper respiratory infection, which means it settles into the airways and breathing passages. Any sort of inflammation in this area can make it harder to take a full breath, which is what can cause those symptoms of respiratory distress or shallow breathing.

Keep an eye on how your child feels and how they are acting and encourage rest as much as possible. Respiratory distress is always considered a medical emergency, so seek immediate medical care if your child starts to exhibit any of the below signs.

RSV Warning Signs That Should Prompt Medical Attention

Shallow breathing or chest contractions
A high fever that won’t go away
Blue skin or fingernails
Loss of consciousness

If you aren’t feeling well, we can help. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

Do My Kids Need the Flu Shot Every Year?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 10:04:02 UTC

It can seem like a constant battle to keep your kids healthy at this time of year. RSV, COVID-19, strep throat and the flu are all circulating right now, and your children will come into contact with them at some point at school, on the bus or while out and about.

While avoiding illness entirely is not possible, taking preventive steps now can help them stay healthier throughout the season. Getting your annual flu shot is one of those steps!

Stop by AFC Urgent Care Hixson with your whole family for your annual flu shots any day of the week. We explain the importance of getting your flu shot below, so read on to learn more.

Why Should My Kids Get Vaccinated?

The flu is a viral infection that can cause serious symptoms in certain populations. Small children and older adults are disproportionately affected by the flu and can experience serious respiratory distress, high fevers and a severe cough. The flu shot can help prevent all that!

The flu shot is reformulated each year to provide the best protection against the current circulating strains. Even if your entire family got vaccinated last year, you are probably not immune to the current strains that are circulating in the Hixson area. This year’s flu shot can help you develop the antibodies your children need before they even get sick.

Top 5 Influenza Symptoms

Fever
Fatigue
Congestion
Body aches
Cough

Does the Flu Shot Prevent Illness Entirely?

While the flu shot is a great tool to help your children stay healthy, it is not 100% effective at stopping the flu. Breakthrough cases do still happen, but the flu shot still has benefits even if they do get sick. The shot can control symptoms and reduce the amount of days that your children are sick. It can take a serious infection and turn it into a mild situation that only lasts a couple of days!

If your children do still get sick this season, keep them home from school and encourage lots of rest. Offer fluids and healthy foods that agree with their stomachs, and make sure they are getting as much sleep as possible. Most cases of the flu fade away within a week or less.

Why Flu Shots for the Entire Family Are Important

They reduce serious respiratory illness.
They are updated every year for the best protection.
They could save your life.
They protect your family from exposure and our community from large outbreaks.

If you are wondering if your recent illness is the flu, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

How Do I Know If It Is COVID-19 or Another Infection?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 10:04:29 UTC

Getting sick is always inconvenient no matter what you come down with. A scratchy throat, lingering cough and a fever can make it really hard to get anything done!

Feeling better is everyone’s top priority in these situations, but it can be hard to find the right treatment if you don’t know what you have. Since many illnesses cause similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell what illness you have on your own.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team is here to help! We can test you for COVID-19, strep throat and the flu with a simple visit to our center.

Are COVID-19, Strep Throat and the Flu Similar Infections?

Yes and no. They are all infections, but they are caused by different things. COVID-19 and the flu are caused by two different viruses while strep throat is caused by a bacteria. The transmission possibilities are similar amongst all three, however. Interacting with an infected person or by touching an infected surface and then touching your face can make you start to feel sick in a matter of days.

When you do start feeling sick, a fever, sore throat, headache or body aches could appear for all three illnesses. Coming to see us for a rapid test is the most reliable way to know what you are sick with! We can give you results in as little as 15 minutes.

Tests We Offer at AFC

COVID-19
Influenza
Strep throat

How Do You Treat COVID-19?

COVID-19 and the flu are viral infections, so unfortunately they cannot be treated by a simple round of antibiotics. There are some antiviral drugs on the market to help manage your symptoms, but they need to be taken right at your symptom onset to work properly. Rest and fluids remain the most reliable way of supporting your body through the healing process.

Treating strep throat is a bit easier! If your rapid test comes back positive for strep, we can prescribe some antibiotics to help knock out your infection in just a few days. Be sure to take your entire round of antibiotics, otherwise the infection may come back.

Symptoms That Could Indicate Either COVID-19 or the Flu

Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Runny nose
Fever

Need help determining what is making you sick? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Hixson for a rapid test.

Who Is at Risk of Serious COVID-19 Complications?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 10:03:12 UTC

What a crazy few years we have had as a community! We dealt with a worldwide pandemic and a mysterious illness for years as our talented medical community dedicated their lives to protecting us and keeping us healthy.

We are grateful that the emergency status for COVID-19 has expired, but we also know that COVID-19 still remains in our community and has the ability to make people very sick.

We don’t want you to be one of those people this year! Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more below about the current COVID-19 symptoms and how to avoid getting sick this year.

Who Can Still Get COVID-19?

Anyone can get COVID-19 at any time. This is true even if you have already gotten it or if you have gotten the vaccine. The coronavirus is always mutating and changing, so while you may be immune to one strain, you may not be immune to another. While the majority of people will only experience mild to moderate symptoms, certain populations need to be hyper-vigilant at this time of year.

Older adults, young children and people with comorbidities or compromised immune systems remain at higher risk of a severe or even deadly infection. This is why it is important to get tested right away if you are feeling sick. Quick treatment options like the recently approved antiviral drug treatment options can help minimize symptoms and aid in a faster recovery.

Symptoms of COVID-19 to Watch for This Season

Sudden fever
Chills
Persistent cough
Shortness of breath
Fatigue or muscle aches

How Can I Protect Myself Against COVID-19?

Getting vaccinated is your most reliable way of avoiding serious infection. While you can still get sick even if you have been vaccinated, the chances of a severe or deadly infection drop significantly.

Even if you had the original doses of the vaccine, it is important to keep up with booster shots. The latest boosters will be available beginning in late September or October. You can also help prevent the illness by washing your hands often, avoiding crowded spaces and steering clear of anyone who is sick.

Red Flags of a Serious COVID-19 Infection

Respiratory distress
Persistent chest pain or pressure
Confusion
Pale, gray or blue-colored skin and lips

Feeling ill? Stop by for a COVID-19 rapid test at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

What Causes You to Fall at Home More When You Get Older?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 10:05:16 UTC

Each passing year is a blessing in its own way. You get to meet new people, have more life experiences and spend more time with your loved ones. There are, however, some risks that increase when you age. One of those risks is at-home falls.

Tripping or slipping when you are younger was typically not a big deal. You would hit the ground but probably be able to pop back up with nothing more than a bruise. Nowadays, it can be dangerous or even deadly to fall while you are at home.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about falling at home and how to avoid it, so read on to learn more.

What Are Some Easy Ways to Improve My Balance?

Maintaining good balance is key to avoiding falls. Losing muscle mass and stability is more common the older you get, so regular exercise is key to supporting your balance. Exercise can even be low-impact and still be beneficial, so add more walks, yoga, tai chi and swimming to your weekly routine.

You should also focus on the type of shoes you choose to wear. Unsupportive or flimsy shoes like flip-flops or sandals can easily get tangled under your feet and cause you to trip, slip or lose your balance on uneven ground. Stick to sturdy sneakers or tennis shoes that will reliably remain under your feet while you are moving about.

Easy Ways to Avoid Falling

Have any broken or twisted exterior steps fixed quickly.
Keep your lawn tidy and roll up your hoses after every use.
Turn your porch light on before leaving in the evening.
Don’t travel when it is icy, or walk slowly and cautiously if you must.

How Can I Organize My House to Avoid Falling?

We all know how easy it is to obtain clutter, and this is especially true the older we get! Excess belongings and clutter around the home contribute to all kinds of falls. Put your belongings away as soon as you are done using them and keep all walkways clear. You should also secure your rugs and carpets down on the edges to keep them from curling up and creating a tripping hazard.

You should also always fill your light with home when you are awake and moving around. Turn on lights as you enter rooms and open the curtains during the day to help you see where you are going. A bedside table lamp is also always a good idea for those nighttime bathroom runs or midnight snack cravings.

Additional Balance Support Ideas

Use handrails when walking down steps.
Install non-slip treads for your bathroom tub or shower.
Invest in a raised toilet seat or grab bars.
Move slowly and always be aware of your surroundings.

Did a recent fall leave you hurt? Come see us right away at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

Why Is Tobacco Smoke Bad For You?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:03:07 UTC

Your lungs have the important job of breathing in oxygen and transporting that fresh air throughout your entire body. Each inhale is important to your health and well-being! If you inhale something other than oxygen into your lungs, it can have a directly negative impact on your organs and your overall health.

Tobacco smoke is a compound that is incredibly irritating to your body and will increase your risk of certain diseases and physical changes. Quitting this addictive habit will only benefit your health and the health of those around you.

Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about the health consequences of smoking and how to take the first steps toward quitting.

What Is Nicotine?

Nicotine is one of the many thousands of chemicals found in tobacco smoke. Nicotine is particularly harmful because it is highly addictive and considered a carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemical. Each time you inhale, you are exposing your lungs and other organs to this dangerous chemical. Nicotine is so addictive because it triggers your body to release dopamine.

Dopamine is the hormone that is responsible for your feelings of happiness or satisfaction, so your body can get used to that constant supply of dopamine and will want it all the time. Over time, chronic smoking will lead to sagging, yellow skin, premature wrinkles, yellow teeth and hair loss. It can also affect your senses and increase your risk of developing deadly diseases.

Diseases Triggered by Chronic Smoking

COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
Lung cancer
Heart disease
Emphysema

How Can I Quit Smoking on My Own?

Choosing to quit for good is the first step. We know that quitting addictive habits can be really hard, but finding a driving reason why you want to quit can help you stay focused. Your friends, family, your own health or the health of your kids are all great motivators. Find what works for you and stick to it. Nicotine replacement therapy like gum or patches work for some, while therapy and other lifestyle changes like finding a new hobby to focus on can help others.

Quitting takes time and determination every day, so you may have to change up your lifestyle for the moment while you focus on this major achievement. Avoiding places where you normally light up, like bars, parties, gatherings or even your back porch during your morning coffee, can all trigger cravings. The sacrifices now will pay off in a big way later in life.

Health Benefits

Stronger, less-damaged lungs
Reduced risk for cancer and other diseases
Improved physical appearance and senses
Eliminating secondhand smoke at home for your family

We are always here for you. Stop by AFC Urgent Care Hixson any day of the week.

What Diagnoses Does the Lab at AFC Urgent Care Hixson Provide?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 10:04:42 UTC

There are so many ways to get sick or be out of balance somewhere in your body. Our bodies are incredibly complex and any sort of deviation or trouble with one of our systems can lead to unpleasant symptoms or generally feeling unwell.

Since there is so much going on in your body at any given time, it can be hard to pinpoint a diagnosis on your own at home! Thankfully, we are here seven days a week to dig deeper into your symptoms for you.

AFC Urgent Care Hixson is proudly equipped with a variety of reliable diagnostic tools, including a state-of-the-art lab. Read on as our team explains what tests we can run in-house to help diagnose you faster.

What Tests Can Be Processed in the Lab?

We are grateful to have a lab right in our center because it allows us to diagnose you much quicker. If we didn’t have this resource, any tests we run would have to be sent off site to be processed, which takes much more time. We offer a variety of rapid tests that can detect the flu, COVID-19, strep throat or RSV in just a few minutes! In addition, we can do things like a urinalysis or a culture to diagnose certain infections.

Our technicians can also draw your blood and perform various tests. One of the most common tests we run is called a CBC, or a complete blood count. This test takes a sample of your blood and is run through a machine to count and measure your blood cells. These levels give our providers a really good baseline for your wellness because having a high or low count of a certain type of blood cell can offer a quick diagnosis.

Possible CBC Test Results

Anemia
An infection
Immune system disorders
Blood diseases

Is Anemia Dangerous?

Anemia is a condition where your body isn’t producing the proper amount of red blood cells in your body. This is one of the most common diagnoses we offer after confirming a patient’s CBC test results. Mild to moderate anemia is treatable with diet and lifestyle changes, but untreated anemia can lead to severe anemia. Over time, severe anemia can negatively impact your heart and lungs and lead to further complications.

If you are experiencing lightheadedness, fatigue, a rapid heartbeat or dizziness, come see us and we will draw up a CBC lab for you. Oftentimes, increasing your iron intake through your diet or a supplement can help your body create more red blood cells over time.

Ways to Incorporate More Iron Into Your Diet

Eat iron-rich foods like lean meat, fish, eggs and dried beans.
Consume more folic acid from dark, leafy green vegetables.
Increase your vitamin D intake.
Take an iron supplement if recommended.

Have you been feeling faint or lightheaded? Come see us for a quick CBC test at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

How Can I Tell What Bug Bit Me?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 10:02:58 UTC

Oh, summer, we love you! The sunny days and warm breezes can make any event or family function much more fun and pleasant. One thing we don’t like, however, is the increase in bugs and creepy-crawlies out and about.

Most bugs aren’t harmful and are just annoying, but some of them can bite or sting—and it hurts!

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about some different bug bites to help you identify what got you, so read on to learn more.

What Does a Tick Bite Feel Like?

We all know about ticks. They can be found at any point in the year, but they are much more common in the summertime. Unfortunately, ticks are really small and are hard to feel as they crawl across your skin. They actually have a numbing agent in their saliva that helps them sneak by undetected as they embed into your skin.

If you receive a tick bite, you will probably know exactly what it is when you discover it because the tick will still be attached to you. The surrounding area might be red, inflamed or raised. Ticks can carry Lyme disease, so getting it off of you quickly should always be your main priority.

Tips for Tick Removal

Use a clean tweezers and pull slowly and steadily away from the skin.
Do not twist as you pull.
Take a picture of the tick.
Dispose in the garbage in a piece of tape or flush in the toilet.
Wash your hands and the bite site thoroughly.

Are Mosquito Bites Dangerous?

The vast majority of mosquitoes in the United States are harmless, albeit very annoying. Some can be carrying diseases like West Nile or the Zika virus, but the majority will just bite you to drink your blood without causing you further harm. Mosquito bites appear as red and itchy bumps. Most are only a few centimeters in diameter, but some people can have more severe reactions and their bites can swell up to the size of a quarter or more.

Bee and wasp stings are a bit more serious. If you get stung by something, try to remove yourself from the area as quickly as possible. Sting sites typically swell up or become inflamed immediately, so you can expect the area to be red and painful for a while. Keep a close eye on how you feel, as allergic reactions to stings can become medical emergencies in mere minutes.

Signs of an Allergic Reaction to a Sting

Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the throat and tongue
The appearance of hives or flushed skin
Loss of consciousness or fainting

If you are ever worried about an animal or insect bite, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

How Fast Can STDs be Diagnosed at AFC?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 10:04:30 UTC

Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are incredibly common across the country. Did you know that one in five Americans will contract one in a given year? With those odds, it is always possible for you to wonder if you need to get tested.

We encourage regular STD testing for those who are sexually active, and we are the place that you can come to for a quick and accurate test.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about our STD testing process and how we can help you feel better below, so read on to find out more.

What Testing Options Does AFC Offer?

We have a variety of tests at our center that we can perform to help figure out whether or not you are experiencing an STD. These tests can either be a swab, a blood draw or a urine sample and can be processed in as little as 30 minutes for some STDs! This means we can help diagnose you and start treatment all in a single visit.

While it may be obvious that you need to be seen if you are experiencing any symptoms, like burning during urination, pain during or after intercourse, or any sort of discomfort , but that is not always the case with STDs. Some can exist without causing any symptoms at all. This is why we encourage regular testing for adults who are sexually active, and especially if you are switching partners.

STD Rapid Tests

Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
HPV
Syphilis

Why Is Getting Tested Necessary?

Just like any other illness, treating your condition will ensure that you make a full recovery without suffering any long-term or chronic issues. An untreated STD can affect your health and your ability to have children in the future, so don’t take those chances just because you don’t want to be tested.

Even if being seen for a sexual-related illness seems uncomfortable, we promise that it is not. Our team sees patients for STD testing all of the time and it is just part of our job, and we are proud to serve our community members when they need discretion and respect the most.

Ways to Prevent Future STDs

Get tested often, even if you don’t have any symptoms.
Wear a condom every time.
Communicate openly with your partners.
Get vaccinated for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and HPV.

We can help you overcome an STD. Come get tested at AFC Urgent Care Hixson today.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Dementia?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Thu, 15 Jun 2023 10:03:04 UTC

As you get older, it becomes more common for those around you to start experiencing memory troubles or develop different forms of dementia. You might begin to wonder if and when this will happen to you!

Memory conditions and dementia can be scary to think about, but there are a few things you can do to support your brain throughout your life to reduce your risk.

Dementia affects over 55 million people worldwide, making it a really common condition that affects the older population. Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains more about dementia and how to support your mind as you get older.

How Does Dementia Attack Your Memory?

Dementia is the big umbrella term that encompasses all kinds of memory conditions. Alzheimer’s is included in this category and is actually the most common form of dementia, making up to 80% of all cases.

Dementia causes extensive damage to specific brain cells. This damage prevents your cells from communicating with each other, which makes it harder to do normal things like think critically, recall memories and control your emotions. It can start out with something simple like constantly misplacing your keys, and it can progress all the way to violent outbursts and personality changes.

Common Dementia Symptoms

Misplacing items frequently
Deepening confusion of events and people
Mood and behavior changes
Difficulty speaking, walking or swallowing

Can Dementia Be Prevented?

Dementia has a genetic factor, so it cannot be 100% avoided. Once you become 65 or older, your risk also increases. However, you can support your brain through your lifestyle choices right now! Regular exercise and a healthy diet are key to ensuring your brain has what it needs to stay sharp.

You should also engage with your brain every day through memory games and critical thinking. Try out different word games, crossword puzzles and even a daily card game with a friend to help support your brain and build neural connections. Support your brain now so it will take care of you later!

Lowering Your Risk of Dementia

Consistent exercise throughout life
Social engagement with peers and family
Well-balanced, healthy diet
Stress management throughout life

Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia can be incredibly isolating. Come to AFC Urgent Care Hixson to meet with our care team.

What Can AFC Do for a Fracture?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 10:04:56 UTC

No one ever wants to get hurt, but it happens. Even if you live an active lifestyle and do your best to avoid injury, getting hurt occasionally is just part of life.

While a simple sprain or strain will eventually heal on its own, what should you do if your pain is lingering or getting worse instead of better?

Come to AFC Urgent Care Hixson, of course! Our team is trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of injuries, including broken bones. Read on to learn more.

How Do Bones Break?

Your bones are the real heavy- lifters in your body. They provide your body structure while also protecting your vital organs on a daily basis. Because of these important jobs, your bones are built to withstand daily pressures and impacts and actually have a flexible quality to them to help absorb everyday forces. However, if an impact or fall is severe enough, it can prove to be too much pressure on your bone and fractures or a full break can occur.

Fractures aren’t complete breaks of the bone, but they can certainly become one if you don’t care for it the right way. If you get hurt and notice the area is swollen, painful to the touch or to movement, or has a visual deformity, come see us right away for an X-ray.

Bones That Can More Easily Fracture

Wrists
Ankles
Hips
Clavicle (collarbone)

Does AFC Have an X-ray Machine?

We sure do! Stop by our center for an exam and X-ray any day of the week. Once you arrive, we will do a visual exam of the injury and ask questions about the incident that caused your injury. From there, we will take you to our X-ray technicians and get a good image of the area of concern. We have a digital X-ray machine on site, which means the image we take is uploaded onto a computer versus printed on physical film.

Digital X-rays allow us to zoom in and manipulate the image without sacrificing quality, and we can get a clearer and more precise view of the injury. Fractures and broken bones appear as dark spots within your bone, so we are looking for those dark spaces between what would normally be solid bone in an X-ray. If we do discover a fracture, we will discuss next steps and find a treatment that works for you.

Digital X-rays vs. Traditional X-rays

Reduced radiation exposure
Clearer images
Fast turnaround
Reduced environmental impact

Our X-ray technology can help you feel better faster. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson for an X-ray today.

How Do I Know If I Have Salmonella?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Mon, 15 May 2023 10:02:49 UTC

When you get sick, it can be hard to know what you are suffering from on your own. Many different illnesses share symptoms, especially GI conditions or infections. If you start experiencing a fever, diarrhea and stomach cramps a few days after eating some questionable food, it may be salmonella.

Salmonella is a type of infection that you can contract after coming into contact with salmonella bacteria, and it can make you feel pretty sick for a few days.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains what it feels like to have a salmonella infection, so read on to learn more.

How Did I Contract Salmonella?

The first thing we will ask you is to think back on what you did or what you ate in the previous few days. This is because the salmonella bacteria lives in contaminated food and on animals. If you ate undercooked meat or eggs or never wash your produce before eating it, your chances of your illness being salmonella go up.

In addition, you can contract salmonella through infected animals. Petting your dog and then not washing your hands or kissing his soft fuzzy head can introduce the bacteria to your body. This is why hand hygiene and proper food preparation is so important!

Salmonella Symptoms That Are Common

Diarrhea
Stomach cramps
Fever
Nausea
Headache

Will I Feel Sick for a Long Time With Salmonella?

Most people start to experience symptoms of salmonella eight to 72 hours after the initial exposure. Your stomach will probably hurt, your GI symptoms will ramp up and you will probably feel pretty run down for a few days. However, the majority of sufferers will recover in a few days without further treatment.

In the meantime, lie low and stay home while you recover. Eat bland foods that agree with your stomach, and get as much rest as you can. You also need to ensure that you avoid dehydration! Diarrhea can cause dehydration quickly, so it is important to continually sip on water while you are sick.

Symptoms That Should Prompt an AFC Visit

Symptoms lasting more than a few days
Bloody stools
A high-grade fever of 102 degrees or higher that won’t go away
Severe dehydration

Stomach issues can be really frustrating. Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson for a diagnosis.

How Can I Avoid Getting Sunburned This Year?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Mon, 01 May 2023 10:04:16 UTC

If summer is your favorite season, you definitely aren’t alone in that thought! The summer months are a favorite among many due to the warm days and bright sunshine. As you get ready to have a summer to remember, it is important to protect yourself against the dangers of the sun.

Even though the sun can feel really nice on your skin, do what you can to minimize long-term exposure. The sun can damage your skin and leave you with painful burns and potential skin issues down the road.

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team wants you to enjoy this time of year safely, so check out our tips on avoiding sunburns below.

What Is Sunburn?

A sunburn is a painful reaction that happens when your skin is exposed to too much UV, or ultraviolet light. This light is found in the sun’s rays, so whenever your skin is exposed to the sun (even through clouds), it is absorbing these rays. The reaction of a sunburn usually goes away in a few days, but the damage done can be permanent to your skin cell’s DNA.

Over time, this damage can increase your risk of developing sun spots, premature wrinkles and even dangerous forms of skin cancer. Skin cancer can pop up in a single spot or it can spread to entire areas of your body.

Common Signs of Skin Cancer

A new change to your skin, like a growth or sore
A changing mole
Skin itchiness
The appearance of a lump under the skin

How Can I Protect My Skin?

If you don’t already have a trusted sunscreen that you use daily, it’s time to head to the store. You really should be applying sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 whenever you are outside, even if it is cloudy. Sunscreen works to protect your skin from the UV rays, and it should be reapplied at least every two hours while you are outside.

In addition, you can dress to protect your skin! Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and consider investing in UV protection clothing. You should also take frequent breaks in the shade and stay hydrated.

Treating a Sunburn

Apply a cool, wet cloth to the skin.
Apply aloe gel or a moisturizing lotion.
Drink plenty of water.
Stay out of the sun.

Sun safety is crucial throughout your life. If you are worried about a potential sign of skin cancer, come see us at AFC Urgent Care Hixson.

How Can I Help My Kids Build Stronger Bones?

AFC Urgent Care Hixson — Sat, 15 Apr 2023 10:02:46 UTC

We often take our bones for granted. Even though we need them every day to provide our bodies with structure and protection, we don’t usually think about them until we suffer a fracture.

Building strong bones in childhood can help set your little ones up for a healthy life and fewer bone issues as they age. Did you know that your bones keep remodeling and changing, even after you are done growing?

Our AFC Urgent Care Hixson team explains how to help your children build stronger bones below, so read on to learn more!

What Should My Child Eat to Build Bone Strength?

The first thing you should focus on is supporting your child’s calcium intake! This mineral helps build and maintain bone health, and it can easily be found in many food products. Dairy products, beans, and leafy green vegetables all contain great levels of calcium.

Vitamin D should also be a priority for your child’s diet and lifestyle. Vitamin D is necessary in order for the body to absorb calcium, so it’s a great pairing for calcium-rich foods. It can be found in certain types of fish like salmon and tuna, as well as foods fortified with it, like orange juice. Your child should also be exposed to the sun every day. Just be sure to apply sunscreen and avoid extended exposure.

Supporting Your Child’s Bone Health

Increase your child’s physical activity.
Encourage sunlight exposure.
Offer more foods rich in vitamin D and calcium.
Avoid secondhand smoke exposure.

What Does Exercise Do for My Child’s Bones?

Another really important aspect of bone health is exercise! Just like our muscles, our bones get stronger the more you use them. Weight-bearing exercises like running and jumping use gravity to put pressure on our bones. This pressure encourages your bones to build up in strength and density.

The easiest way to incorporate more exercise into your child’s life is to encourage free play and exploration. Running around outside and climbing safely can help build up bone strength all while having fun and getting some fresh air.

People at Risk of Weaker Bones

Women
Individuals of Caucasian and Asian descent
People who take certain medications for chronic conditions
Older adults

Are you concerned about a possible broken bone? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Hixson today.