First Aid Handbook

A woman inspects her lip for cold sores

First Aid Handbook: Cold Sores

Many people – both children and adults – experience sores or blisters in and around their mouth from time to time. Cold sores – also called fever blisters – are a common group of sores caused by the herpes simplex (HSV-1) virus. The tiny, fluid-filled blisters most frequently appear on or around the lips but may also occur inside the mouth or nose. They should not be confused with canker sores, which are not contagious.

A man wrapped in a blanket coughs on a couch

First Aid Handbook: Upper Respiratory Infections

Now that fall is here, it’s not uncommon to wake up one morning with that scratchy feeling in the back of your throat or find yourself having a sneezing attack at work. While many of us may experience seasonal allergies at this time of year, colds and upper respiratory infections may also be the cause of symptoms like these. The upper respiratory tract includes the sinuses, nasal passages, pharynx, throat, and larynx and an infection may occur in any or all of these passageways.

A man blows his nose while sitting on the couch

First Aid Handbook: Preventing Fall Flu

Fall officially begins with the autumnal equinox (this year on September 22), when even in Texas our thoughts turn to pumpkin spice [everything!], harvest festivals, scarecrows, sweaters, and [of course] football. While you may not think about flu season until the weather really starts to feel like fall, the best time to get your annual fall flu shot may be earlier than you think.

A group of people play in a lake

First Aid Handbook: Waterborne Illness

Getting into the water is probably one of almost everyone’s favorite things about summer. However, that favorite “swimming hole,” – whether your backyard or neighborhood pool, a nearby lake, or the ocean – may be hiding some nasty waterborne illnesses which can take the fun out of your water activities.

A thermometer reads over one hundred degrees fahrenheit

First Aid Handbook: Heat-related Illnesses

If you have been outdoors lately, you may have noticed – it’s HOT! Even though we know it’s coming, it seems like really HOT weather can come very quickly, especially here in Texas. Being outdoors in hot weather, especially when the heat is accompanied by high humidity, requires special precautions.

A woman puts sunscreen on her shoulder

First Aid Handbook: Sunburns

You may feel like a sunburn is permanently attached to your list of summer activities—family vacations, beach days, pool parties, camping trips, grill-outs, and sunburns. It’s all part of the fun! But did you know that every sunburn can cause serious damage to your skin over the course of your life?

A boy in a field blows his nose

Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Allergies

“‘Tis the season to be sneezing” is the song most Texans will be singing soon—if they aren’t already. Allergy season is upon us, and while it is unavoidable for most people, it doesn’t have to be miserable. That’s right – you don’t have to endure the awful symptoms associated with allergies. As you learn more about seasonal allergies, discover the treatment options that are available to help you feel better faster.

A woman lies on her couch in pain

Integrity Urgent Care First Aid Handbook – Norovirus

Norovirus is an infection that is not necessarily dangerous but can keep you home for several days. Young children, older adults, and anyone with an underlying disease may experience more complications or symptoms from the virus for a longer period. It’s important to know not only what symptoms to look out for, but also what you can do to prevent contracting norovirus.