Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Fevers
A fever is the temporary increase in body temperature in response to a disease or illness. It’s important to remember that a fever is not an illness, but a sign that the immune system is fighting off a bacterial or viral infection. Most of the illnesses that cause a fever aren’t dangerous and treatable at home.
Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Ear Infections
An ear infection is an inflammation of the middle ear that occurs when fluid builds up behind the eardrum. Ear infections are usually caused by bacteria. Although adults can get ear infections, they are far more common in children, and five out of six children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday. Ear infections are the most common reason children visit the doctor’s office. Otitis media is the scientific name for an ear infection.
Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Pink Eye (Bacterial Conjunctivitis)
Bacterial conjunctivitis, commonly referred to as pink eye, is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation of the clear membrane that covers the white part of the eye. It can also lead to inflammation of the underside of the eyelid. The bacteria that cause pink eye can come from your own skin, your upper respiratory system, or from someone else with pink eye. It is very contagious.
What You Need to Know as Flu Season Continues
This year’s flu season is one of the worst in recent memory. Federal officials reported last week that this season has already caused the most hospitalizations in nearly a decade. During the week of February 10th, an additional 22 children’s deaths from the flu were reported, bringing the total to at least 84 nationwide. However, the week of February 10th was also the first week of the season in which the number of people seeking care for flu symptoms did not increase, potentially indicating that this harsh flu season may be levelling off. However, it’s far from over. Here’s what you need to know as flu season continues.
Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – RSV
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a very common virus that causes lung and airway infections. In adults and older children, it leads to mild, cold-like symptoms. It can be more serious in young children, particularly premature infants or children born with chronic medical problems, such as heart or lung disease. Infections are most common November – April but can occur at any time.
How Cold Weather Affects Your Health
What a winter it has been already! Our area of the country has recently seen extremely cold temperatures and multiple days of snow and ice. When the temperature drops, weather-related health problems start to rise. Read on for tips to fight back!
Disinfecting the Home After a Sick Family Member
Has someone in your family recently had the flu or another illness? After he or she recovers, it’s important to disinfect your home. Flu viruses can live outside the body for 24 hours according to the CDC (although some sources say longer). Stomach viruses are especially resilient – some can live on hard surfaces for up to two weeks! Follow our 12-step plan to keep those germs from spreading to others.
Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Strep Throat
Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pyrogenes that live in the nose and the throat. It is more likely to develop in people who have spent time in close contact with someone who has strep throat or a crowded place. It is most common in children and teens, but adults can also get it as well.
Tackling Holiday Heartburn
What is heartburn? Heartburn is an irritation of the esophagus, the tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It results in a burning sensation in your upper belly, below your breastbone, or in your throat. It often follows the occurrence of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acid moves up into the esophagus.
The Not-So Happy Holidays
December should be a time full of happiness and cheer, but sometimes an illness or injury can lead to days that aren’t exactly “merry and bright”. Did you know that ALL the unhappy situations below can be handled at an urgent care clinic?
