Common Medical Conditions Urgent Cares Address

If you are feeling sick or are dealing with a nonemergency health issue, consider visiting urgent care. These healthcare centers are a convenient solution for patients who cannot wait for an appointment with a primary care provider or do not currently have one. Our doctors and staff can treat a wide range of health conditions, giving you the care you need as soon as possible. Here are some of the most common medical conditions for which patients make a trip to urgent care.

Cold, flu, or fever

Urgent care is a great resource for patients dealing with symptoms of the common cold, flu, or similar illnesses. The doctors and staff can evaluate a patient’s symptoms—cough, sore throat, fever, etc.—and test to determine which virus may be causing them. They can then provide treatments, which can range from antiviral treatments for the flu and antibiotics for strep throat to over-the-counter (OTC) options that aim to alleviate symptoms. In addition, patients who need a doctor’s note for work or school can request one during their visit.

Sprains or strains

It is common for patients to visit urgent care over a sprain or strain. Sprains affect a specific joint and are often accompanied by a tearing or popping sensation when they occur. Patients most often experience sprained ankles and knees. On the other hand, a strain affects the muscles or tendons. Thus, strains cause muscle spasms or cramping and typically affect the hamstring, calf, or groin.

Urgent care staff can confirm whether the patient is experiencing a sprain or strain and provide any necessary accommodations, such as a walking boot. They will also discuss how long to rest the affected area and recommend treatments (like physical therapy) for a faster recovery. If needed, they can answer questions about OTC pain relievers and help the patient select one.

Eye irritation

Eye irritation, swelling, or redness are common reasons to go to urgent care. These symptoms may indicate a stye or conjunctivitis (pink eye). While these conditions can clear up on their own with time, medical treatment can help them go away faster and provide much-needed relief from symptoms. Urgent care staff may prescribe antibiotics for bacterial pink eye or painful, stubborn styes. They can also discuss how to drain styes, when to use warm compresses, and how effective popular home remedies may be.

Urinary tract infections

Pain while urinating, having to urinate more than usual, and constantly feeling as though one has to use the restroom may indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). Per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), patients should see a medical professional as soon as possible if they suspect a UTI. While UTIs are not an emergency condition, they can progress into one if left untreated. Our urgent care staff can diagnose UTIs as soon as symptoms arise and prescribe antibiotic treatment to clear them up.

Rashes 

Rashes and skin conditions can occur for a variety of reasons, such as infection or chemical irritants. Contact dermatitis from soaps, poison ivy, and other triggers could also cause rashes. Other times, the patient may have a medical condition like eczema. Urgent care can help with each of these causes and more, providing treatments to relieve discomfort and inflammation.

While rashes are usually not urgent, do not delay seeking medical attention if they affect the mouth or genitals. These could indicate a sexually transmitted infection (STI), which urgent care staff can treat and help prevent the spread of. Rashes can also become infected by other viruses and bacteria. Signs of these infections include swelling, discharge, and crusting.

Minor animal bites and stings

Even minor animal bites and stings can lead to infection and diseases like tetanus or rabies. Whether it was from a dog, cat, snake, jellyfish, or any other domestic pet or wildlife, visit urgent care within the first 24 hours. Medical staff will cleanse the wound and work to prevent further issues. Vaccinations, such as a tetanus or rabies shot, may be necessary. 

Minor burns

While minor burns can typically heal on their own, some burn injuries respond well to professional medical treatment. For instance, urgent care staff can treat second-degree burns, which reach into the second layer of skin. As per the Mayo Clinic, these burns may look red and swollen; they often cause painful blisters. Urgent care staff can relieve pain and work to prevent infections and scarring.

Get the care you need

At our New Caney urgent care, we treat patients with various medical conditions. If you are dealing with a non-life-threatening condition, we can help you, too. Contact us today for more information.

Request an appointment here: https://tx-urgentcare.com or call Texas Urgent Care & Imaging Center at (832) 941-1894 for an appointment in our New Caney office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Urgent Care in New Caney, TX.