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When Do You Need Minor Procedure Treatment in Toms River, NJ

Mon, 04 May 2026 06:32:17 GMT

When Do You Need Minor Procedure Treatment in Toms River, NJ

Minor procedure treatment in Toms River, NJ addresses injuries such as cuts requiring stitches, burns, and wounds that need professional cleaning, suturing, and dressing with clear instructions for home care and healing.

Which Injuries Qualify as Minor Procedures?

Minor procedures include wounds that are urgent but not life-threatening, such as lacerations needing closure, burn treatment, or foreign object removal.

Cuts deeper than a quarter inch or longer than half an inch often require sutures to promote proper healing and minimize scarring. Burns that affect multiple skin layers need debridement and specialized dressings. Wounds with debris or contamination require thorough cleaning to prevent infection. Abscesses may need incision and drainage to relieve pressure and remove infected material.

These injuries benefit from prompt treatment but do not require emergency room resources, making walk-in care an efficient option.

How Are Lacerations Closed and Cared For?

Lacerations are closed using stitches, surgical glue, or sterile strips depending on the depth, location, and tension of the wound edges.

The provider first numbs the area with local anesthetic to ensure comfort during the procedure. The wound is cleaned thoroughly to remove dirt and bacteria. Sutures bring the edges together to promote healing from the inside out. After closure, a sterile dressing protects the area from contamination. You receive instructions on keeping the wound dry, changing dressings, and watching for signs of infection such as increased redness or drainage.

Most sutures are removed after seven to fourteen days depending on wound location. Facial cuts often heal faster than those on joints or high-movement areas.

Do Burns Always Need Professional Treatment?

Not all burns require medical care, but second-degree burns with blistering or burns larger than three inches across benefit from professional evaluation and treatment.

First-degree burns affecting only the outer skin layer can usually be managed at home with cool water and aloe. Second-degree burns that cause blisters and affect deeper skin layers need cleaning, specialized dressings, and monitoring to prevent infection. Third-degree burns that penetrate all skin layers require emergency care. Chemical or electrical burns should always be evaluated regardless of appearance.

Providers assess burn depth, apply antimicrobial dressings, and prescribe pain management. They also provide guidance on blister care and signs that warrant follow-up.

Ocean County's coastal environment means residents often need treatment for urgent care services in Toms River related to water-related injuries and outdoor activities that can result in cuts or burns.

What Should You Expect During Wound Cleaning and Dressing?

Wound cleaning removes contaminants and reduces infection risk, while proper dressing promotes healing and protects the injury from further damage.

The provider irrigates the wound with sterile saline to flush out dirt, bacteria, and dead tissue. For heavily contaminated wounds, mechanical scrubbing may be necessary. Once clean, the wound is dried and assessed for depth and damage to underlying structures. An appropriate dressing is applied based on wound type—absorbent pads for draining wounds, occlusive dressings for burns, or adhesive strips for small cuts.

You receive detailed instructions on dressing changes, signs of infection, and activity restrictions. Follow-up appointments ensure healing progresses as expected.

Are Tetanus Shots Needed After Cuts and Puncture Wounds?

Tetanus immunization status determines whether a booster is needed after injuries involving dirty objects, soil exposure, or deep puncture wounds.

If your last tetanus shot was more than ten years ago, or more than five years for contaminated wounds, a booster is recommended. Tetanus bacteria live in soil and can enter the body through breaks in the skin, causing severe muscle spasms and complications. The vaccine provides protection and is typically administered during your minor procedure visit.

Providers review your immunization history and recommend boosters based on injury type and time since last vaccination.

How Does Toms River Weather Affect Wound Healing?

Toms River's humid summers and coastal air can slow wound healing if moisture becomes trapped under dressings, creating conditions for bacterial growth.

High humidity makes it harder for wounds to stay dry, so frequent dressing changes may be necessary during summer months. Saltwater exposure from nearby beaches can irritate open wounds despite its mild antiseptic properties. Winter cold can reduce blood flow to extremities, slowing healing in hands and feet.

Providers offer seasonal wound care advice and recommend breathable dressings that balance moisture control with protection. Keeping wounds elevated and avoiding submersion in water supports faster recovery regardless of season.

Residents managing workplace injuries appreciate convenient access to work-related injury treatment in Toms River that includes wound care and proper documentation for workers' compensation claims.

Minor procedure treatment at Family First Primary Care in Toms River, NJ ensures proper wound closure, burn care, and infection prevention with detailed aftercare instructions. Connect with our team for immediate treatment of cuts, burns, and injuries requiring professional attention.

Sports Physicals for Student Athletes in West Long Branch, NJ

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 08:45:00 GMT

Sports Physicals for Student Athletes in West Long Branch, NJ

Sports physicals in West Long Branch, NJ provide essential health clearances for student athletes, ensuring they are safe to participate in school and athletic activities throughout the year.

What Happens During a Sports Physical?

During a sports physical, a medical provider reviews your health history, performs a physical examination, and assesses your fitness to participate in sports without increased risk of injury or illness.

The provider asks about past injuries, surgeries, and any chronic conditions such as asthma or allergies. They check your height, weight, blood pressure, and heart rate. A physical exam includes listening to your heart and lungs, checking your joints and muscles for strength and flexibility, and evaluating your posture and coordination.

The goal is to identify any issues that could make sports participation unsafe, such as heart abnormalities or poorly healed injuries. If everything checks out, the provider signs the required forms so you can join your team or league.

Do Schools Require Sports Physicals Every Year?

Most schools and athletic leagues require sports physicals annually to ensure students remain healthy and fit for participation as they grow and develop through adolescence.

Your body changes significantly during your school years, and conditions can develop or worsen over time. An annual exam catches new health concerns early and confirms that previous injuries have healed properly. Many schools will not allow you to practice or compete without a current physical on file.

Scheduling your sports physical before the season starts prevents last-minute delays. Walk-in availability at urgent care centers makes it easy to complete the exam even if your schedule is busy. For younger children or other family members, pediatric urgent care services in West Long Branch, NJ offer comprehensive care near you.

Can Sports Physicals Detect Hidden Health Issues?

Yes, sports physicals can detect hidden health issues such as heart murmurs, high blood pressure, vision problems, or musculoskeletal weaknesses that might increase your risk during athletic activity.

Some conditions do not cause noticeable symptoms until physical stress reveals them. A heart murmur may only be detected with a stethoscope during exertion. High blood pressure can go unnoticed until measured during a routine exam. Vision issues might affect your performance and safety in fast-paced sports.

Identifying these problems early allows you to seek appropriate treatment or take precautions. In some cases, you may be cleared to play with modifications or after follow-up with a specialist. Access to x-ray services in West Long Branch, NJ supports further evaluation if an injury or structural concern is found during the physical.

Are Sports Physicals Timed for Local School Schedules?

Sports physicals in West Long Branch align with local school athletic calendars, with increased demand before fall and spring sports seasons when students prepare for tryouts and team participation.

High schools and middle schools in the area typically start fall sports in late summer, creating a surge in physical exam requests. Spring sports begin in early March, prompting another round of appointments. Urgent care centers anticipate these peaks and offer extended availability to accommodate student athletes and their families.

Completing your physical early ensures you do not miss the first practice or game due to paperwork delays. Local providers understand the timing and requirements of area schools, making the process smooth and efficient.

Family First Urgent Care offers sports physicals for student athletes with flexible scheduling and walk-in availability. See how we can support your athletic goals by calling 732-531-0100 in West Long Branch, NJ.

Pickleball: Possible injuries to watch out for

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:51:29 GMT

Pickleball: Possible injuries to watch out for

Pickleball, a rapidly growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, is enjoyed by people of all ages. However, like any sport, it presents a risk of injuries. The most common injuries associated with pickleball include:

Ankle Sprains: Due to the swift side-to-side movement and quick direction changes, players are prone to rolling or twisting their ankles.
Tennis Elbow: Despite its name, this injury isn't exclusive to tennis players. The repetitive motion of swinging the paddle can lead to pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow.
Shoulder Injuries: Repetitive overhead strokes and serves can strain the shoulder, leading to conditions like rotator cuff tendinitis.
Knee Pain: The quick stops and starts can exert stress on the knees, causing conditions like patellar tendinitis or exacerbating pre-existing issues.
Wrist Strain: Holding and swinging the paddle can lead to wrist pain, especially if players use incorrect technique.
Cuts and Bruises: Collisions, falls, or being struck by the ball can lead to these more minor injuries.

When any of these injuries occur, prompt and appropriate medical attention is essential. "Family First Urgent Care" offers a convenient place for pickleball players to seek care. The healthcare professionals at "Family First Urgent Care" can provide accurate diagnoses, recommend treatment plans, and offer guidance on prevention strategies.

In conclusion, while pickleball is an enjoyable and engaging sport, players must be aware of potential injuries. Knowing where to seek expert care, such as "Family First Urgent Care", ensures that participants can safely enjoy the game and recover effectively from any injuries they might sustain.

Cold weather urgent care

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:48:52 GMT

Cold weather urgent care

During the cold months, urgent care centers often see an increase in patients seeking medical attention for various reasons. Some of the most common reasons for going to urgent care during the winter include:

Influenza and Cold Symptoms: Cold and flu season typically peaks during the winter months, leading to a higher number of patients with symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, and congestion.
Respiratory Infections: Winter weather can exacerbate respiratory conditions like bronchitis and pneumonia, leading to an uptick in patients seeking treatment for these infections.
Slip and Fall Injuries: Icy sidewalks and slippery conditions can lead to an increase in slip and fall injuries, such as sprains, fractures, and contusions.
Seasonal Allergies: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to indoor allergens, such as mold, dust mites, and pet dander, which can become more pronounced in the winter when homes are sealed and heated.
Winter Sports Injuries: People engaging in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are at risk of injuries ranging from minor bruises to more severe fractures or concussions.
Respiratory Issues from Indoor Heating: The use of indoor heating systems can dry out the air and exacerbate conditions like asthma and allergies, leading to respiratory symptoms.
Hypothermia and Frostbite: Exposure to extreme cold can result in hypothermia and frostbite, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Some individuals experience symptoms of depression during the winter months, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder, and may seek mental health support.
Gastrointestinal Illnesses: There may be an increase in gastrointestinal illnesses during the winter, potentially due to the spread of norovirus and other contagious illnesses in enclosed spaces.
Road Accidents: Hazardous road conditions, particularly in regions with snow and ice, can lead to an increase in accidents and injuries requiring urgent care.

It's important to note that the specific reasons for seeking care can vary depending on the region, climate, and the severity of the winter season. Family First Urgent Care is well-equipped to handle a wide range of medical issues, including those that become more prevalent during the colder months.

Don’t let poison ivy ruin your day: what you need to know

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:44:59 GMT

Don’t let poison ivy ruin your day: what you need to know

Don’t Let Poison Ivy Ruin Your Day: What You Need to Know

Spending time outdoors is a great way to unwind, but a brush with poison ivy can turn a peaceful walk into an itchy nightmare. This common plant is known for causing skin irritation, and while it’s usually more of a nuisance than a danger, knowing how to identify, treat, and prevent poison ivy exposure can save you a lot of discomfort.

What Is Poison Ivy?

Poison ivy is a plant that contains urushiol, an oily resin found in its leaves, stems, and roots.

How to Identify Poison Ivy

The old saying "Leaves of three, let it be" is a good rule of thumb. Poison ivy typically:

Has three pointed leaflets per stem
May have shiny leaves, with smooth or slightly toothed edges
Can grow as a shrub or climbing vine
Changes color with the seasons—green in summer, red/orange in fall

Common Symptoms of Poison Ivy Rash

Symptoms usually appear within 12–48 hours after contact and may include:

Redness and itching
Swelling
Blistering
Streaky or patchy rash at the site of contact

When to See Urgent Care

While most cases resolve on their own, you should seek medical attention if:

The rash is widespread or near sensitive areas like the eyes or face
Blisters are oozing or show signs of infection (like yellow crusting or increased pain)
You experience difficulty breathing (which could indicate an internal reaction from inhaling smoke from burning poison ivy)
Home remedies aren’t providing relief after several days

If you find yourself dealing with a stubborn or severe poison ivy rash, Family First Urgent Care is here to help. Our experienced medical team can evaluate your symptoms and provide effective relief through prescription strength creams, oral steroids, or antihistamines. With convenient walk-in care and on-site treatment available 7 days a week, we’ll help you get the relief you need—so you can get back to feeling comfortable and enjoying the outdoors again.

Staying safe on two wheels

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:41:05 GMT

Staying safe on two wheels

Two Wheels, Smart Choices: Staying Safe and What to Do if the Unexpected Happens

The wind in your hair, the sun on your face – there's a unique joy that comes with cycling. Whether you're commuting to work, hitting scenic trails, or just enjoying a leisurely ride around the neighborhood in Ocean Township, biking is a fantastic way to exercise, reduce your carbon footprint, and explore your surroundings. However, like any activity, it comes with inherent risks. Being aware of these risks and taking proactive steps towards safety can significantly reduce the chances of ending up in urgent care.

Let's dive into some crucial bike safety tips and the common injuries we often see at urgent care facilities.

Prioritizing Your Safety: Essential Tips for Every Ride

Wear a Properly Fitted Helmet: This is non-negotiable. A helmet is your first line of defense against serious head injuries. Ensure it fits snugly and meets safety standards. Replace your helmet after any impact, even if it looks undamaged.
Make Yourself Visible: Drivers need to see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during dawn, dusk, or nighttime. Consider adding reflective tape to your bike and clothing. Use front white and rear red lights, even during the day, to enhance visibility.
Maintain Your Bike: Regularly inspect your tires for proper inflation and wear, check your brakes for responsiveness, and ensure your chain is lubricated and in good working order. A well-maintained bike is a safer bike.
Know the Rules of the Road: Just like drivers, cyclists have responsibilities. Obey traffic laws, including stopping at red lights and stop signs, using hand signals to indicate turns and stops, and riding with the flow of traffic. Be predictable in your actions.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to the road conditions, including potholes, gravel, and uneven surfaces. Watch out for pedestrians, parked cars, and opening car doors. Use your ears as well as your eyes – be aware of approaching vehicles.
Ride Defensively: Assume that drivers may not see you and be prepared to react. Maintain a safe following distance from vehicles and anticipate potential hazards.
Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with your intended path, especially if you're going on a longer ride. Consider traffic patterns and road conditions. Let someone know your route and estimated return time.
Carry Identification and Emergency Contact Information: In case of an accident, having identification and emergency contact details readily available can be crucial for first responders.
Consider Your Skill Level: Don't attempt trails or routes that are beyond your current riding abilities. Gradually build your skills and confidence.

When Things Go Wrong: Common Bike Injuries Seen in Urgent Care

Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen. Here are some of the most frequent injuries we treat at urgent care centers related to cycling:

Abrasions and Lacerations (Road Rash and Cuts): These are often the result of falls onto pavement or contact with other objects. While seemingly minor, deep or extensive wounds may require cleaning, stitches, and tetanus boosters.
Sprains and Strains: Falls or sudden twists can lead to sprains (ligament injuries) and strains (muscle or tendon injuries), particularly in the wrists, ankles, and knees. These injuries often present with pain, swelling, and limited range of motion.
Fractures (Broken Bones): Fractures are more serious injuries that can occur from higher-impact falls. Common fracture sites in cyclists include the collarbone, wrist, forearm, and ankle. These injuries require immobilization and often casting or splinting.
Shoulder Injuries: Dislocations and rotator cuff injuries can happen during falls, especially when landing on an outstretched arm. These can be quite painful and may require reduction (realigning the bone) and rehabilitation.
Head Injuries and Concussions: Even with a helmet, head injuries can occur. Concussions, a type of mild traumatic brain injury, can result from a blow to the head or a sudden jolt. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, and nausea. It's crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect a concussion.
Knee Pain: Overuse or improper bike fit can lead to various knee problems, such as patellofemoral pain syndrome (pain around the kneecap) or meniscus tears. While some cases can be managed with rest and support, others may require further evaluation.
Wrist and Hand Issues: Prolonged pressure on the handlebars can sometimes lead to nerve compression issues like carpal tunnel syndrome, causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the hands and fingers.

When to Seek Urgent Care

While minor scrapes and bruises can often be managed at home, it's important to know when to seek professional medical attention at an urgent care facility. You should go to urgent care if you experience any of the following after a cycling incident:

Significant pain that doesn't improve with rest and ice.
Obvious deformity or inability to move a limb.
Deep or bleeding wounds that may require stitches.
Signs of a concussion, such as headache, dizziness, confusion, or vomiting.
Persistent numbness or tingling.
Any loss of consciousness, even if brief.

Enjoy the Ride, Stay Safe!

Cycling offers numerous physical and mental health benefits. By prioritizing safety through proper gear, awareness, and adherence to traffic laws, you can significantly reduce your risk of injury. However, if the unexpected happens, remember that urgent care facilities are equipped to handle many common cycling-related injuries, providing timely and efficient care to get you

Spending time outdoors: ticks

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 12:34:14 GMT

Spending time outdoors: ticks

How to Prevent Tick Bites, Treat Them Safely, and Know When to Seek Medical Care

As the weather warms up across New Jersey, more people are spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, playing sports, or enjoying time in the yard. With that comes an increased risk of tick exposure. Understanding how to prevent tick bites, what to do if you find one, and when to seek medical care can help protect you and your family.

Why Tick Bites Matter

Ticks are more than just a nuisance—they can carry infections such as Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses that are common in Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties. Early detection and proper care are key to avoiding complications.

How to Prevent Tick Bites

Taking a few simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk:

Wear protective clothing when in wooded or grassy areas (long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes)
Use insect repellent with DEET or permethrin on clothing
Stick to clear paths and avoid tall grass or brush when possible
Perform tick checks after being outdoors—especially behind knees, under arms, around ears, and along the hairline
Shower shortly after outdoor activity to help wash away unattached ticks

For families with children and pets, regular tick checks are especially important.

What to Do If You Find a Tick

If you discover a tick, try not to panic. Prompt and proper removal reduces the risk of infection.

Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible
Pull upward with steady, even pressure—avoid twisting
Clean the area thoroughly with soap and water or alcohol
Dispose of the tick safely (do not crush it with your fingers)

Avoid home remedies like petroleum jelly or heat, as these can increase the risk of disease transmission.

Symptoms to Watch For

After a tick bite, keep an eye out for:

A bullseye-shaped rash (common with Lyme disease)
Fever, chills, or fatigue
Headaches or muscle/joint aches
Swollen lymph nodes

Symptoms can appear days to weeks after a bite, so it’s important to stay aware.

When to Seek Medical Care

It’s a good idea to be evaluated by a medical provider if:

You’re unsure how long the tick was attached
The tick appears engorged (swollen with blood)
You develop any symptoms such as rash, fever, or fatigue
You’re unable to fully remove the tick
The bite site becomes increasingly red, swollen, or painful

In some cases, preventive antibiotics may be recommended, particularly in areas where Lyme disease is common.

Convenient Care Close to Home

At Family First Urgent Care & Primary Physicians , we’re here to make getting care simple and stress-free. Our experienced providers can evaluate tick bites, remove ticks if needed, and determine whether treatment or testing is appropriate.

We offer:

Walk-in care—no appointment needed
On-site evaluation and treatment for tick bites and related symptoms
Care for all ages, including pediatrics
Convenient locations across Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex Counties

Visit us at any of our locations in Old Bridge, Oakhurst, Eatontown, and Toms River , open 7 days a week with extended hours.

A Final Thought

Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of the season—and with a little awareness, you can enjoy it safely. If you have any concerns about a tick bite, it’s always better to have it checked.

If you’d like, you can walk right in or reserve your place online—we’re here when you need us.

What to do when a sting happens

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:03:33 GMT

What to do when a sting happens

Sunny days bring out the best of nature—and unfortunately, sometimes the worst of it too. At Family

First

Urgent Care, we see a rise in bee stings during spring and summer! While most stings are harmless, they can be painful and, in some cases, even dangerous. Here’s what every family should know to stay safe and treat bee stings the right way.

What Happens When You Get Stung?

A bee sting delivers venom into the skin, causing a localized reaction. For most people, this means:

Immediate sharp pain
Redness and swelling
Itching or warmth at the site

Signs of an Allergic Reaction

Difficulty breathing or wheezing
Swelling of the face, lips, or throat
Hives that spread beyond the sting site
Dizziness or fainting
Rapid pulse or confusion

First Aid for a Mild Bee Sting

For most people, a bee sting can be safely treated at home. Here’s how:

Remove the stinger ASAP
Wash the area
Apply a cold compress
Take an antihistamine
Use a pain reliever if needed
Apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion

Bee Aware, Not Bee-Afraid

Mild allergic reactions to bee stings—like localized swelling or itching—can be safely treated at Family First Urgent Care. But for severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat swelling, seek emergency care immediately.

What families should know about dehydration

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 21:00:27 GMT

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What Families Should Know About Dehydration – From Family First Urgent Care

With warmer days, outdoor play, sports, and summer fun just around the corner, staying hydrated becomes more important than ever. At Family First Urgent Care, we often see patients, especially children, athletes, and older adults come in with symptoms of mild to severe dehydration. Whether it’s from heat, activity, or illness, dehydration can sneak up fast. Here ’s what you need to know to spot the signs, stay ahead of it, and know when to get help.

What Is Dehydration?

Dehydration happens when your body loses more fluids than it takes in. This can happen from:

Excessive sweating
Vomiting or diarrhea
Fever
Not drinking enough water—especially in hot weather or during physical activity

Signs of Dehydration

Dry mouth and lips
Few or no tears when crying
Decreased urine output
Fatigue, irritability, or confusion
Sunken eyes or soft spot
Headache or dizziness
Muscle cramps
Rapid heartbeat or breathing

How to Prevent Dehydration

Drink water regularly throughout the day—not just when you’re thirsty
Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks, which can make dehydration worse
Dress in light, breathable clothing
Take frequent breaks during sports and playtime

Remember: By the time you feel thirsty, you may already be mildly dehydrated.

Dehydration can sneak up quickly, especially during hot weather or illness, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications. Whether you're experiencing early symptoms like fatigue and dizziness or more severe signs such as confusion or rapid heartbeat, Family First Urgent Care is here to help. Our team can assess your condition, provide rehydration treatment, and get you feeling better fast—all in a comfortable, walk-in setting.

Bounce with care: What you should know about trampoline injuries

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:57:02 GMT

Bounce with care: What you should know about trampoline injuries

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Sunburn: When your skin needs more than just aloe (and its time for urgent care)

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:52:49 GMT

Sunburn: When your skin needs more than just aloe (and its time for urgent care)

The sun is beckoning, and outdoor adventures are calling. But sometimes, despite our best intentions, the sun gets the better of us, leaving behind more than just a healthy glow – it leaves a painful sunburn. While most sunburns are mild annoyances that can be managed at home, there are times when a severe burn demands more than just aloe vera and a cool shower. Knowing when to escalate your self-care to a professional urgent care visit can prevent complications and ensure your skin heals properly.

So, how do you tell the difference between a minor burn and one that warrants a trip to the clinic? Let's break down when to seek urgent care for a sunburn.

Why Some Sunburns Lead to Urgent Care (It's More Than Just Pain)

A sunburn is a serious inflammatory reaction to excessive ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. The immediate redness and pain are clear signs of skin damage. While our bodies are usually good at healing minor burns, severe sunburns can lead to complications that require medical attention.

When to Make That Urgent Care Trip: Key Warning Signs

While you can typically manage mild to moderate sunburns at home with cool compresses, moisturizers, and over-the-counter pain relievers, certain symptoms should prompt you to visit an urgent care clinic without delay. Do not hesitate to seek professional medical attention if you experience any of the following:

1. Widespread or Large Blisters

While small blisters are common with second-degree sunburns, large, fluid-filled blisters covering a significant portion of your body (especially the face, hands, feet, or genitals) indicate a severe burn that needs professional evaluation. These blisters are prone to infection and may need to be drained in a sterile environment.

2. Signs of Infection

Be vigilant for any signs that your sunburned skin is becoming

infected. This includes:

o Increasing pain, redness, or swelling around the burn.

o Pus or yellow discharge from blisters or broken skin.

o Red streaks spreading from the burned area.

o A foul odor coming from the burn.

3. High Fever and Chills: If your sunburn is accompanied by a fever higher than 101°F

(38.3°C) and chills, it could indicate a more severe systemic reaction to the burn or the

onset of heat-related illness.

4. Severe Pain Not Relieved by OTC Medications: If the pain from your sunburn is

excruciating, interfering with your sleep, or making daily activities unbearable despite

using over-the-counter pain relievers (like ibuprofen or naproxen), an urgent care doctor

can provide stronger pain management and assess for other complications.

5. Signs of Dehydration: Sunburns can cause significant fluid loss. Seek urgent care if you

experience:

o Dizziness or lightheadedness

o Extreme thirst

o Reduced urination

o Fatigue or weakness

o Dry mouth and sticky saliva

6. Headache, Nausea, or Vomiting: These symptoms, especially when combined with a

severe sunburn, can be red flags for heatstroke, a life-threatening condition that requires

immediate medical attention.

7. Extreme Swelling: Significant swelling in the affected area, particularly in the hands,

feet, or face, can indicate a more severe inflammatory response or fluid retention issues.

8. Sunburn on a Baby or Young Child: Infants and young children are much more

susceptible to the severe complications of sunburn, including dehydration and heatstroke,

due to their delicate skin and less developed thermoregulation. Always seek medical

attention for any sunburn on a baby or young child.

9. Eye Pain or Vision Changes: If your eyes were directly exposed to the sun and you

experience significant pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, or any other visual

disturbances, consult urgent care immediately.

10. Feeling Faint or Disoriented: Any feeling of faintness, confusion, or disorientation

alongside a sunburn is a serious sign that requires immediate medical evaluation.

Prevention is Your Best Medicine (and Your Ticket to Avoiding Urgent Care)

The best way to avoid an urgent care visit for a sunburn is to prevent it in the first place.

Remember your sun safety basics:

• Seek Shade: Especially between 10 AM and 4 PM.

• Wear Sunscreen: Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ generously and reapply every two hours.

• Cover Up: Wear long sleeves, pants, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective clothing.

• Wear Sunglasses: To protect your eyes.

Stay Hydrated Embrace the Sun Safely!

Enjoying the outdoors is a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, and the sun plays a huge role in that.

By understanding the risks of sunburns and consistently practicing sun safety, you can protect

your skin's health, prevent premature aging, significantly reduce your risk of skin cancer, and,

importantly, avoid an unexpected trip to urgent care. So, slather on that sunscreen, seek that

shade, and get ready to enjoy the sun responsibly!

If you experience any of the severe symptoms listed above, don't delay – head to your

nearest Family First Urgent Care clinic for prompt assessment and treatment. Your skin

(and your well-being) will thank you.

Don’t let the heat get you down: know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:43:57 GMT

Don’t let the heat get you down: know the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Summer in New Jersey brings beautiful beaches, outdoor activities, and plenty of sunshine. But with rising temperatures, it's crucial to understand the risks of heat-related illnesses. Two common conditions are heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and knowing the difference – and when to seek medical attention – can be life-saving.

Heat Exhaustion: Your Body's Warning Signal

Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat-related illness that occurs when your body loses too much water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. It's your body's way of telling you to cool down and rehydrate before a more serious condition sets in.

Signs to watch out for with Heat Exhaustion:

Heavy sweating: Your skin may feel cool and clammy.
Dizziness or lightheadedness: Feeling faint or unsteady.
Headache: A dull or throbbing head pain.
Nausea or vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach.
Muscle cramps: Often in the legs or abdomen.
Weakness or fatigue: Feeling unusually tired.
Pale skin: Your complexion might appear lighter than usual.
Fast, weak pulse: Your heart rate may be elevated but feel faint.

What to do for Heat Exhaustion:

If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of heat exhaustion, take immediate action:

Move to a cooler place: Get out of the sun and into the shade or an air-conditioned environment.
Lie down and elevate legs: This helps improve blood flow.
Loosen clothing: Remove any tight or excessive layers.
Cool the body: Apply cool, wet cloths to the skin (neck, armpits, groin) or take a cool shower or bath. Fanning can also help.
Sip fluids: Drink small sips of water, a sports drink with electrolytes, or another noncaffeinated, non-alcoholic beverage. Avoid chugging large amounts.
Monitor symptoms: Watch closely for any worsening of symptoms.

When to go to Urgent Care for Heat Exhaustion:

If, after about an hour of self-care, your symptoms of heat exhaustion do not improve or worsen, or if you experience vomiting that prevents you from keeping fluids down, it's time to visit seek medical attention. At Family First Urgent Care, we can provide IV fluids for rehydration and further assessment to ensure you recover safely. Our facility offers walk-in care with no appointment needed, and we're equipped with X-ray and EKG services if necessary.

Heat Stroke: A Medical Emergency

Heat stroke is the most serious form of heat-related illness and is a medical emergency that requires immediate professional medical attention. It occurs when your body's temperature regulation system fails, and your core body temperature rises rapidly, often to 104°F (40°C) or higher. Untreated, heat stroke can lead to permanent disability or even death.

Critical Signs to watch out for with Heat Stroke:

High body temperature: A core body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher is a hallmark.
Confusion, disorientation, or altered mental status: This can include slurred speech, irritability, agitation, or even seizures.
Hot, red, dry OR damp skin: Unlike heat exhaustion where sweating is common, with heat stroke, sweating may have stopped.
Throbbing headache: A severe and persistent headache.
Rapid and strong pulse: The heartbeat will be fast and forceful.
Rapid, shallow breathing: Breathing may be quick and labored.
Fainting or loss of consciousness: The person may collapse or become unresponsive.
Nausea and vomiting: Similar to heat exhaustion, but often more severe.

What to do for Heat Stroke (While Waiting for Emergency Services):

If you suspect someone has heat stroke, call 911 immediately. While waiting for emergency

medical services to arrive:

1. Move the person to a cooler environment: Get them out of the sun.

2. Begin cooling efforts: Immerse them in a tub of cold water if possible, or apply cold, wet

cloths or ice packs to the armpits, groin, neck, and back. Fan them continuously.

3. Do NOT give fluids to drink: The person may be unconscious or have an altered mental

status, making it dangerous to give them anything by mouth.

When to go to the Emergency Room (ER) for Heat Stroke:

Any suspicion of heat stroke warrants an immediate call to 911 and transport to the

nearest Emergency Room. Symptoms like confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, or a very

high body temperature are clear indicators that this is a life-threatening situation requiring the

advanced medical care, diagnostic tools, and intensive cooling treatments available only in an

ER or Medical Center equipped to handle such emergencies.

Stay Safe This Summer!

Understanding the differences between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is essential for staying

safe during hot weather. Be proactive by staying hydrated, wearing light clothing, taking breaks

in the shade, and knowing your body's limits. If you experience concerning symptoms,

remember Family First Urgent Care is here for you 7 days a week for any heat exhaustion needs,

and for heat stroke, always call 911! Your health and safety are our top priority.

How do you know if its bronchitis?

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:32:15 GMT

How do you know if its bronchitis?

A lingering cough that won’t go away can be frustrating — especially after a cold or flu. One common cause is bronchitis, a condition that occurs when the airways in the lungs become inflamed.

Common symptoms of bronchitis include a persistent cough (with or without mucus), chest tightness, wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and sometimes a low-grade fever. Symptoms often last longer than a typical cold and may linger for several weeks.

Bronchitis is usually diagnosed through a medical history review and physical exam. Providers listen to the lungs and evaluate symptoms to determine whether bronchitis is present. In some cases, testing may be recommended to rule out pneumonia, flu, COVID-19, or asthma.

Most cases of acute bronchitis are viral, meaning antibiotics are often not needed. Treatment typically focuses on symptom relief, which may include cough medication, inhalers, anti-inflammatory treatments, rest, and hydration.

You should consider visiting urgent care if your cough lasts more than 7–10 days, worsens instead of improving, or is accompanied by wheezing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or fever. Individuals with asthma, chronic lung disease, or weakened immune systems should seek care sooner.

Family First urgent care centers are open 7 days a week to evaluate lingering respiratory symptoms, rule out more serious conditions, and help you feel better faster.

If a persistent cough is disrupting your daily life, don’t ignore it — timely care can make a difference.

How To Get Over The Flu Faster

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 20:29:50 GMT

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that can cause symptoms like fever, body aches, fatigue, cough, and congestion. While there’s no instant cure, the right care can help you recover faster, feel more comfortable, and reduce the risk of complications.

Rest and Stay Hydrated

Rest is one of the most important steps in recovering from the flu. Your body needs time and energy to fight the virus, so prioritize sleep and avoid strenuous activity. Staying hydrated is just as important—drink water, electrolyte beverages, broth, or tea to help lower fever, loosen congestion, and prevent dehydration.

Manage Flu Symptoms

Over-the-counter medications can help relieve common flu symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, cough, and congestion. Always follow dosing instructions and talk with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure what medications are safe, especially for children or those with underlying conditions.

At Family First Urgent Care, our providers can help you choose symptom relief options that are safe and appropriate for you .

Eat Light, Nourishing Fo ods

Loss of appetite is common with the flu. Stick to small, easy-to-digest foods like soup, toast, rice, or bananas. These foods can help support your immune system and give your body the energy it needs to heal.

When to Seek Medical Care for the Flu

Most people begin to feel better within about a week, but medical care may be needed if symptoms are severe or worsening.

Trouble breathing or shortness of breath
Chest pain or pressure
A high or persistent fever
Confusion or extreme fatigue
Symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen

In some cases, antiviral medications may be recommended—especially when started early.

If you’re unsure whether your flu symptoms need medical attention, Family First Urgent Care is here to help. Our team can evaluate your symptoms, provide flu testing when appropriate, and recommend the right treatment to help you recover safely and comfortably.

How To Get Over The Flu Faster

Understanding Pre-Employment Physicals in Eatontown, NJ for Job Applicants

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Understanding Pre-Employment Physicals in Eatontown, NJ for Job Applicants

Pre-employment physicals in Eatontown, NJ provide employers with medical evaluations that confirm job candidates can safely perform required duties, meeting industry standards and protecting both workers and companies from preventable health risks.

What Does a Pre-Employment Physical Exam Include?

A pre-employment physical typically assesses vital signs, medical history, physical capabilities, and sometimes drug screening to ensure fitness for the job.

The exam begins with a review of your health history, including chronic conditions, medications, and past injuries. Vital signs such as blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature are measured. Vision and hearing tests may be performed for roles requiring specific sensory function. A physical examination checks cardiovascular health, respiratory function, and musculoskeletal strength.

For physically demanding positions, providers may assess your ability to lift, bend, or stand for extended periods. Some employers require drug and alcohol screening as part of the evaluation. Results are documented and shared with the employer according to confidentiality regulations.

Which Industries Require Pre-Employment Medical Exams?

Transportation, healthcare, manufacturing, and safety-sensitive industries commonly mandate pre-employment physicals to ensure workers can meet job demands without health risks.

Commercial drivers must pass Department of Transportation physicals before operating vehicles. Healthcare workers often need immunization verification and tuberculosis screening. Construction and warehouse roles may require musculoskeletal assessments to prevent injury. Public safety positions such as law enforcement and firefighting have strict physical standards.

Even office environments may require basic health screenings if insurance policies or corporate wellness programs mandate them. Requirements vary by employer, industry regulations, and job responsibilities.

How Long Do Pre-Employment Physical Results Remain Valid?

Validity periods depend on employer policies and regulatory requirements, but most pre-employment physicals are considered current for thirty to ninety days.

If you accept a job offer within that window, the exam results can be submitted without retesting. Beyond the validity period, employers typically require a new physical to ensure your health status hasn't changed. For DOT physicals, certification lasts up to two years depending on medical findings, but initial employment physicals are usually single-use documents.

If you're applying to multiple employers simultaneously, confirm whether each accepts recent exam results or requires separate evaluations. Some industries have standardized forms that streamline the process.

Eatontown's location near Fort Monmouth and major employment centers means many residents need access to occupational medicine services in Eatontown for employment-related health evaluations and workplace injury care.

Can Pre-Employment Physicals Disqualify You From a Job?

Medical exams can identify conditions that prevent safe job performance, but disqualification must be based on legitimate job-related health concerns and follow legal guidelines.

Employers cannot discriminate based on disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act, but they can require that candidates meet essential job functions. If a medical condition poses a direct threat to safety or prevents you from performing core duties even with reasonable accommodations, disqualification may be lawful. For example, uncontrolled hypertension might disqualify a commercial driver, while a desk worker with the same condition would not be affected.

Providers document findings objectively and indicate whether you meet job-specific health standards. If you're found temporarily unfit, you may reapply after treatment or condition management.

Do You Need to Bring Medical Records to Your Exam?

Bringing recent medical records, medication lists, and immunization history helps providers complete your evaluation accurately and efficiently.

If you have a chronic condition such as diabetes or asthma, documentation of management and current treatment supports a thorough assessment. Medication lists prevent interactions and clarify ongoing health needs. Immunization records are essential for healthcare and childcare positions. Vision or hearing test results from recent exams can sometimes substitute for repeat testing if they meet employer requirements.

Contact the clinic beforehand to confirm what documentation is needed. Having records on hand reduces delays and ensures your exam addresses all employer requirements in one visit.

How Do Monmouth County's Military and Corporate Sectors Influence Physical Standards?

Eatontown's proximity to former military installations and corporate headquarters creates demand for physicals that meet federal and industry-specific standards.

Defense contractors and security firms often require physicals that align with Department of Defense guidelines, including specific vision, hearing, and psychological fitness criteria. Pharmaceutical and medical device companies in the area may mandate health screenings to comply with clean room and laboratory safety protocols. Retail and logistics centers need musculoskeletal evaluations for warehouse and delivery roles.

Providers familiar with regional employer requirements streamline the process by using standardized forms and understanding common industry health standards. This local expertise reduces back-and-forth between clinics and human resources departments.

Job seekers also benefit from nearby access to drug screening services in Eatontown that meet employer-mandated testing protocols as part of the pre-employment process.

Pre-employment physical exams at Family First Primary Care in Eatontown, NJ ensure you meet job-specific health requirements with efficient evaluations and accurate documentation. Plan your exam to support a smooth hiring process and workplace readiness.

When to choose Urgent Care over the ER

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 21:14:18 GMT

When to choose Urgent Care

over the ER

When you’re sick or injured, deciding where to go for care can feel overwhelming, especially when you need answers quickly. Understanding when to choose Urgent Care versus the emergency room (ER) can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress, while ensuring you receive the right level of medical care.

Family First Urgent Care is designed to treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that need prompt attention but don’t require the advanced resources of a hospital ER. We bridge the gap between primary care and emergency medicine by offering fast, convenient care—often with shorter wait times, extended hours, and walk-in availability.

What Conditions Does Family First Urgent Care Treat?

Providers at Family First Urgent Care treat a wide range of common medical issues—conditions that are uncomfortable or concerning but not considered emergencies.

Common illnesses treated at Family First Urgent Care include:

Cold and flu symptoms
COVID-19 and RSV
Sore throats and strep infections
Ear infections and sinus infections
Bronchitis and upper respiratory infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Fever, cough, nausea, vomiting, and mild abdominal pain

Patients are typically evaluated, tested, and treated in a single visit, helping them recover quickly and confidently.

Injuries and Minor Emergencies

Urgent Care is also a convenient option for many injuries that don’t require

emergency intervention, such as:

Sprains and strains
Minor fractures
Cuts that may need stitches
Minor burns and bruises
Sports injuries or falls

With on-site X-ray services available, Family First providers can diagnose injuries and begin treatment right away—without the long wait often associated with emergency rooms.

Diagnostic Testing and Imaging

One of the biggest advantages of choosing Family First Urgent Care is access to same-day diagnostic services. Many of our locations provide:

Rapid flu, COVID-19, RSV, and strep testing
Basic lab work
On-site X-ray imaging

This allows patients to receive answers and treatment quickly, all in one place.

Pediatric and Adult Urgent Care

Family First Urgent Care treats both children and adults, making us a convenient choice for families. From childhood ear infections and fevers to adult respiratory illnesses and minor injuries, we provide accessible, compassionate care for patients of all ages.

Preventive and Routine Services

In addition to treating illness and injury, Family First Urgent Care also offers preventive and routine services, including:

Vaccines and immunizations
School, sports, and work physicals
Occupational health services
Treatment for rashes, allergic reactions, and minor skin conditions

When to Choose Family First Urgent Care Over the ER

Family First Urgent Care is often the best option when you need prompt medical attention for a non-emergency condition. Patients choose us for:

Walk-in convenience
Evening and weekend hours
Shorter wait times than the emergency room
Lower out-of-pocket costs for many visits

If your condition is urgent but not life-threatening, Family First provides high quality care without the intensity or expense of an ER visit.

When You Should Go to the Emergency Room

While Family First Urgent Care treats many urgent medical needs, we are not designed to handle life-threatening emergencies. Call 911 or go directly to the ER for:

Chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack
Signs of stroke, such as sudden weakness or trouble speaking
Severe shortness of breath
Major trauma or serious head injuries
Uncontrolled bleeding
Loss of consciousness or seizures

Choosing the Right Care at the Right Time

Knowing when to choose Urgent Care versus the emergency room empowers you to make informed healthcare decisions. Family First offers fast, effective treatment for many everyday medical needs—helping you feel better sooner, without unnecessary delays.

If you’re unsure where to go, Family First Urgent Care is often a smart first step for non-emergency concerns.

DOT Physicals for Commercial Drivers in Brick Township, NJ

Sun, 29 Mar 2026 08:45:02 GMT

DOT Physicals for Commercial Drivers in Brick Township, NJ

DOT physicals in Brick Township, NJ offer certified Department of Transportation examinations for commercial drivers, with convenient scheduling and same-day availability to keep you on the road.

What Does a DOT Physical Exam Include?

A DOT physical exam includes a comprehensive health assessment covering vision, hearing, blood pressure, urinalysis, and a review of medical history to ensure you meet federal safety standards for commercial driving.

The examiner checks your vital signs and conducts a physical examination of your cardiovascular system, respiratory function, and musculoskeletal health. Vision and hearing tests confirm you can safely operate a commercial vehicle. The provider reviews any medications you take and discusses chronic conditions that might affect your ability to drive.

You will also provide a urine sample to screen for underlying health issues. The goal is to identify any condition that could impair your driving or pose a risk to yourself and others on the road. Passing the exam results in a medical certificate that you must carry while driving commercially.

How Often Do Commercial Drivers Need DOT Physicals?

Most commercial drivers need a DOT physical every two years, though drivers with certain medical conditions may require annual or more frequent exams to maintain certification.

If you have well-controlled conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, the examiner may issue a one-year certificate and require follow-up to ensure your health remains stable. Drivers with more serious concerns may receive shorter certification periods. Staying current with your DOT physical is a federal requirement, and driving without a valid certificate can result in penalties or loss of your commercial license.

Planning ahead and scheduling your exam before expiration helps you avoid lapses. For additional workplace health services, occupational medicine services in Brick Township, NJ support drivers and other professionals with comprehensive evaluations.

Can You Get a DOT Physical Without an Appointment?

Many urgent care centers offer same-day DOT physicals without requiring an appointment, providing flexibility for drivers with unpredictable schedules or last-minute certification needs.

If your certificate is expiring soon or you forgot to schedule in advance, walk-in access ensures you can get examined quickly. Same-day availability is especially helpful for drivers who travel frequently or work irregular hours. You can stop in during your route or on a day off and complete the exam in less than an hour.

Certified examiners are available during operating hours to perform the assessment and issue your certificate on the spot if you pass. This convenience keeps you compliant and reduces downtime. Families and individuals also benefit from urgent care services in Brick Township, NJ for a variety of medical needs near you.

Do Brick Township Drivers Face Unique Transportation Demands?

Brick Township drivers navigate high-traffic corridors and busy shore routes, creating demand for reliable DOT physical services that accommodate commercial drivers serving logistics, delivery, and regional transport industries.

The area supports significant trucking and delivery activity due to proximity to major highways and coastal commerce. Seasonal tourism increases traffic and delivery volume, requiring more commercial drivers on the road. Drivers need health certifications that fit their demanding schedules without delaying their routes.

Local urgent care providers understand these regional transportation patterns and offer flexible scheduling to meet drivers' needs. Keeping commercial fleets compliant and healthy supports the local economy and ensures safe roadways year-round.

Family First Urgent Care provides certified DOT physicals with same-day availability to keep your career moving forward. Request details by calling 732-531-0100 and complete your exam in Brick Township, NJ.

Drug Screening at Urgent Care: Fast, Reliable Testing for Employers, Students, and Individuals

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:19:15 GMT

Drug Screening at Urgent Care: Fast, Reliable Testing for Employers, Students, and Individuals

Drug screening is often required for employment, school programs, workplace safety, and medical evaluations. Whether you are starting a new job, participating in a school program, or completing a workers’ compensation requirement, having access to quick and reliable drug testing is important. Urgent care centers provide a convenient option for completing these screenings without long wait times.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge offer drug screening services 7 days a week. We provide testing for patients of all ages, including students, employees, and individuals, as well as services related to workers’ compensation cases, pre-employment screenings, random workplace testing, and post-accident testing.

What Is a Drug Screening?

A drug screening is a medical test used to detect the presence of certain drugs or substances in the body. These tests are commonly required by employers, schools, sports organizations, and other programs to ensure safety and compliance with policies.

Drug screenings may be required for:

Pre-employment drug testing
Random workplace drug testing
Post-accident testing
Workers’ compensation cases
Reasonable suspicion testing
Return-to-duty testing
Court-ordered testing
School, student, or athletic program requirements

Urgent care centers provide a convenient and professional setting for completing these screenings quickly.

Drug Screening for Employers and Workplace Programs

Many businesses rely on drug testing programs to maintain a safe and productive workplace. Urgent care centers frequently partner with employers to provide efficient drug screening services for employees and job candidates.

Employers may require drug testing for:

Pre-employment screenings before a candidate begins work
Random drug testing programs
Post-accident testing following workplace incidents
Workers’ compensation injury evaluations
Return-to-duty testing after leave or workplace policy violations

Urgent care clinics help simplify the testing process so employees can complete screenings quickly and return to work when appropriate.

Drug Screening for Students

Drug screenings may also be required for students participating in certain programs, sports teams, internships, or academic requirements. Schools and organizations sometimes require testing to promote safety and compliance with program guidelines.

Urgent care provides a convenient option for students who need drug testing for school programs, athletics, or other educational requirements, with quick visits that help minimize disruptions to their schedules.

Drug Testing for Workers’ Compensation Cases

When a workplace injury occurs, drug screening may be required as part of the workers’ compensation evaluation process. Urgent care providers can assess the injury, provide necessary treatment, and perform drug testing if required by the employer or insurance provider.

Having these services available in one location helps make the process easier for both employees and employers.

What to Expect During a Drug Screening

Drug screening at urgent care is typically fast and straightforward.

During your visit, the process usually includes:

Check-in and documentation for the employer, school, or organization requesting the test
Sample collection, most commonly through a urine test
Secure handling and processing according to testing protocols
Results sent to the appropriate employer, school, or requesting organization

The visit is designed to be efficient so individuals can complete testing and return to their normal activities quickly.

Convenient Drug Screening Near You

If you need a drug screening for employment, school programs, or workplace requirements, urgent care offers a fast and reliable option.

Family First Urgent Care provides professional drug screening services at our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge. Our clinics offer convenient walk-in testing for patients of all ages, including services for students, pre-employment screenings, workers’ compensation cases, random workplace testing, and post-accident drug testing.

We proudly serve patients and employers throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County, providing efficient and professional testing services with extended evening hours and availability 7 days a week.

COVID-19 and RSV Testing at Urgent Care: Fast, Convenient Care in NJ

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:13:23 GMT

COVID-19 and RSV Testing at Urgent Care: Fast, Convenient Care in NJ

As the cold and flu season continues, viruses like COVID-19 and RSV can spread quickly, especially among children and adults in schools, workplaces, and households. Early testing and diagnosis are essential to prevent complications and protect those around you. Urgent care centers provide a fast and convenient option for COVID-19 and RSV testing and treatment without the long waits often associated with emergency rooms.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ, offer walk-in testing and care for COVID-19 and RSV 7 days a week. We provide services for patients of all ages, including children and adults, with results often available the same day.

What Is COVID-19 and RSV?

COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) is a common virus that causes respiratory infections, especially in young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. Symptoms can include coughing, congestion, fever, and difficulty breathing.

Both viruses can be highly contagious, making timely testing and diagnosis critical.

When to Visit Urgent Care for COVID-19 or RSV

You should consider visiting urgent care if you experience:

Fever, chills, or body aches
Persistent cough or shortness of breath
Nasal congestion or runny nose
Sore throat
Fatigue or headaches
Exposure to someone diagnosed with COVID-19 or RSV
Symptoms in children or infants that need immediate attention

Urgent care is an ideal choice for non-life-threatening symptoms, providing quick evaluation and testing without the long waits of the ER.

Testing and Treatment at Urgent Care

At Family First Urgent Care, we offer:

Rapid and PCR COVID-19 testing
RSV testing for children and adults
Flu testing and treatment
On-site evaluation by experienced providers
Guidance on quarantine, isolation, and symptom management

Testing is quick, accurate, and convenient, helping you get answers and peace of mind on the same day.

Benefits of Choosing Urgent Care for COVID-19 and RSV

Walk-In Availability
No appointment is necessary. Our clinics provide same-day testing for all ages.
Short Wait Times
Unlike emergency rooms, urgent care centers prioritize urgent but non-life-threatening cases, providing faster access to testing and care.
Safe, Professional Care
Our staff is trained to evaluate, test, and treat respiratory illnesses safely, following strict infection control protocols.
Extended Hours

Our NJ urgent care locations offer evening and weekend hours, making it easier for families and individuals to access care when they need it.

Family First Urgent Care Locations in New Jersey

Our walk-in COVID-19 and RSV testing services are available at these convenient locations:

Oakhurst, NJ
Eatontown, NJ
Toms River, NJ
Old Bridge, NJ

We proudly serve families and patients throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County, providing fast, accessible care for children and adults.

DOT Physicals at Urgent Care

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 21:06:11 GMT

DOT Physicals at Urgent Care

For commercial drivers, maintaining compliance with Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations is essential. DOT physicals are required for drivers to obtain or maintain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and ensure they are medically fit to operate commercial vehicles safely. Urgent care centers provide a fast and convenient option for DOT physicals without the long waits often associated with specialty clinics.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ, offer DOT physicals 7 days a week. We provide professional, efficient examinations for drivers of all ages, helping you get back on the road quickly and in compliance with DOT regulations.

What Is a DOT Physical?

A DOT physical is a medical examination performed by a certified healthcare provider to ensure that a commercial driver is physically and mentally fit to operate a commercial vehicle. These exams are required for:

CDL license issuance or renewal
DOT compliance for interstate and intrastate commercial drivers
Safety and injury prevention in the workplace

During a DOT physical, the provider evaluates overall health, vision, hearing, and cardiovascular fitness, ensuring the driver meets federal safety standards.

What to Expect During a DOT Physical at Urgent Care

A DOT physical is thorough but straightforward. During your visit at urgent care, you can expect:

Medical history review – The provider reviews your health, medications, and any past conditions.
Physical exam – Evaluation of heart, lungs, abdomen, reflexes, and musculoskeletal system.
Vision and hearing tests – Ensuring you meet DOT standards for safe driving.
Blood pressure and vital signs check – Confirming overall health and fitness.

Most visits are completed quickly and efficiently, allowing drivers to return to work without unnecessary delays.

Benefits of Getting Your DOT Physical at Urgent Care

Shorter Wait Times
Urgent care clinics typically have faster evaluations than specialty DOT clinics or hospital-based exams.
Professional, Experienced Providers
Family First Urgent Care providers are certified to perform DOT physicals and understand the requirements to ensure compliance.
Flexible Hours

Our NJ locations offer evening and weekend hours, making it easier for drivers to get their exams done on their schedule.

DOT Physicals Near You in New Jersey

If you need a DOT physical for your CDL, Family First Urgent Care offers walk-in exams at our convenient locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ.

Our clinics serve commercial drivers throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County, NJ, providing fast, reliable DOT exams with friendly staff and minimal wait times.

Urgent Care for Pediatrics: Convenient Walk-In Care for Kids

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:43:04 GMT

Urgent Care for Pediatrics: Convenient Walk-In Care for Kids

When your child suddenly gets sick or injured, you want fast, reliable care without the long wait times of the emergency room. Pediatric urgent care provides a convenient solution for parents who need medical attention for their children quickly.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ provide pediatric urgent care services 7 days a week, offering walk-in care for infants, children, and teenagers. Our experienced providers understand that children require special attention and care, and we are here to help families get the treatment they need when it matters most.

What Is Urgent Care?

Pediatric urgent care is designed to treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries in children that require prompt medical attention but do not require a trip to the emergency room.

Urgent care centers provide a convenient option when your child’s pediatrician is unavailable, such as during evenings, weekends, or holidays.

Families often choose pediatric urgent care because it offers:
Walk-in visits with no appointment required
Shorter wait times than emergency rooms
Treatment for common childhood illnesses and injuries
On-site services such as X-rays and lab testing

This allows children to receive quick diagnoses and treatment in a comfortable environment.

Common Conditions Treated at Urgent Care for Pediatrics

Children can get sick or injured unexpectedly, and urgent care centers are equipped to handle many common pediatric conditions.

Some of the most common reasons parents bring their children to urgent care include:

Fever and flu symptoms
Ear infections
Strep throat and sore throat
Cold and cough
Minor cuts that may need stitches
Sprains and minor fractures
Rashes or allergic reactions
Pink eye (conjunctivitis)
Minor burns or injuries from sports or play

Because many urgent care centers offer on-site diagnostic testing and X-rays , providers can often diagnose and treat your child during the same visit.

Benefits of Urgent Care for Pediatrics

Many families rely on urgent care for their children because of the convenience and accessibility it provides.

Faster Care

Urgent care centers typically have shorter wait times than emergency rooms, helping children receive treatment sooner.

Convenient Hours

Many urgent care centers offer evening and weekend hours, making it easier for parents to get care when pediatrician offices are closed.

Walk-In Availability

Parents don’t need to schedule an appointment, which is helpful when children and infants become sick unexpectedly.

Comprehensive Services

From X-rays to diagnostic testing, urgent care centers can evaluate and treat many pediatric conditions in one visit.

Walk-In Urgent Care Near You

At Family First Urgent Care, we understand how stressful it can be when your child is sick or injured. Our providers are experienced in caring for children and strive to create a comfortable, supportive environment for families.

Our urgent care centers in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ offer pediatric urgent care services 7 days a week, with walk-ins welcome and extended evening hours.

We proudly serve families throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County, NJ, providing fast, convenient care for children when they need it most

School Physicals at Urgent Care: Fast, Convenient Exams for Students

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 20:07:25 GMT

School Physicals at Urgent Care: Fast, Convenient Exams for Students

As the school year approaches, many parents need to schedule school physicals or sports physicals for their children. These exams are often required for school enrollment, sports participation, and extracurricular activities . Instead of waiting weeks for a pediatrician appointment, urgent care offers a fast and convenient option.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ offer walk-in school physicals 7 days a week . Our providers help students complete the necessary health exams quickly so they can return to the classroom, sports, and activities without delay.

What Is a School Physical?

A school physical is a routine health examination that ensures a child is healthy and ready to participate in school activities. These exams help identify potential health concerns and confirm that a child is physically able to participate in sports or other activities safely.

School physicals are commonly required for:

New school enrollment

Middle school or high school registration

Sports teams and athletics

Summer camps or extracurricular programs

Urgent care providers can complete the required paperwork and forms during your visit.

What to Expect During a School Physical

A school physical is a straightforward medical exam designed to evaluate your child’s overall health.

During the visit, the provider will typically check:

Height and weight

Blood pressure and heart rate

Vision screening

Heart and lung health

Joint flexibility and physical fitness

Medical history and current medications

General physical development

If forms are required by your child’s school or sports program, be sure to bring them with you to your visit .

Why Choose Urgent Care for School Physicals?

Many families choose urgent care for back-to-school physicals because it offers a faster and more convenient option than scheduling a traditional doctor’s appointment.

Walk-In Convenience

No appointment is necessary. Parents can bring their child in when it fits their schedule.

Quick Visits

School physicals at urgent care are typically completed in a short visit , helping families avoid long delays.

Evening and Weekend Hours

Urgent care centers often provide extended hours , making it easier for busy families to get exams done after school or work.

One Visit for the Whole Family

Many urgent care centers can provide physical exams for both children and adults , including sports physicals and employment physicals.

School and Sports Physicals Near You

If your child needs a school physical or sports physical , urgent care provides a simple and convenient solution.

Family First Urgent Care offers walk-in school physicals at our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ , making it easy for families to get exams completed quickly.

Our team proudly serves families throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County, NJ , providing fast and reliable care for children and adults.

With extended evening hours and availability 7 days a week, we make it easier for students to get the physical exams they need to stay active and ready for school.

Urgent Care vs. ER: Where Should You Go for Medical Care?

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 17:40:45 GMT

Urgent Care vs. ER: Where Should You Go for Medical Care?

When you or a family m ember suddenly feels sick or gets injured, it can be difficult to decide whether to go to urgent care or the emergency room (ER) . Understanding the difference between the two can help you receive the right level of care while saving both time and money.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ provide convenient walk-in care for a wide range of non-life-threatening conditions. With extended evening hours and availability 7 days a week , urgent care offers a fast and accessible alternative to the emergency room for many common illnesses and injuries.

What Is Urgent Care?

Urgent care centers are designed to treat non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries that require prompt medical attention but are not severe enough for the ER .

Patients often choose urgent care because it offers:

Walk-in visits with no appointment required

Shorter wait times compared to emergency rooms

Lower costs than hospital ER visits

On-site services like X-rays, lab testing, and minor procedures

Urgent care providers can diagnose and treat many everyday medical issues quickly and efficiently.

Common Conditions Treated at Urgent Care

Urgent care is an excellent choice for many common health concerns, including:

Minor fractures or possible broken bones

Sprains and strains

Cuts that may require stitches

Cold, flu, and fever

Ear infections

Strep throat

Minor burns

Allergic reactions without breathing difficulty

Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Because many urgent care centers offer on-site diagnostic services like X-rays and lab testing , patients can often receive diagnosis and treatment in a single visit.

Key Differences Between Urgent Care and the ER

Wait Times

Urgent care centers typically have shorter wait times , while ER wait times may be longer because patients with life-threatening conditions are treated first.

Cost

Urgent care visits are generally much less expensive than emergency room visits , making them a more affordable option for non-emergency conditions.

Type of Care

Urgent care treats minor illnesses and injuries , while emergency rooms handle serious and life-threatening medical emergencies .

Accessibility

Urgent care centers often provide extended evening and weekend hours , making care more accessible when primary care offices are closed.

Choosing the Right Care for Your Situation

If your condition is serious or life-threatening , you should always go to the emergency room or call 911.

However, if your condition is urgent but not life-threatening , visiting urgent care can help you receive fast, affordable medical attention without the long wait times often associated with ER visits.

X-Ray at Urgent Care: Fast, Convenient Imaging Without the ER Wait

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 16:52:56 GMT

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When you’re dealing with an injury or sudden pain, getting answers quickly is important. At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge, NJ offer on-site X-ray services 7 days a week , making it easy for patients to receive fast diagnosis and treatment without the long wait times often associated with emergency rooms.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you can get an X-ray at urgent care , the answer is yes—and it’s often the quickest and most convenient option.

What Is an Urgent Care X-Ray?

An urgent care X-ray is a diagnostic imaging service used to view bones and certain internal structures of the body. These images help medical providers diagnose injuries and conditions quickly so that treatment can begin right away.

Because the X-ray is performed on-site, patients can often receive results during the same visit.

Urgent care centers use X-rays to identify:

Broken or fractured bones
Sprains and joint injuries
Dislocations
Chest conditions such as pneumonia
Foreign objects in the body
Certain abdominal issues

Having imaging available at urgent care allows providers to evaluate injuries immediately instead of referring patients elsewhere for testing.

When Should You Visit Urgent Care for an X-Ray?

Urgent care is a great option when you have a non-life-threatening injury or condition that may require imaging.

You should consider visiting urgent care for an X-ray if you experience:

A possible broken bone after a fall or accident
Swelling, bruising, or severe pain in a joint or limb
Limited range of motion after an injury
Persistent chest pain with coughing or breathing issues
Sports injuries or workplace injuries

Urgent care centers are designed to treat conditions that require prompt attention but are not medical emergencies.

Benefits of Getting an X-Ray at Urgent Care

Many patients choose urgent care imaging services because they provide several advantages over other healthcare settings.

Shorter Wait Times

Emergency rooms prioritize life-threatening conditions, which can lead to long wait times for non-emergencies. Urgent care centers typically provide faster evaluation and imaging services.

Lower Cost Than the ER

X-rays performed at urgent care are often significantly less expensive than hospital emergency departments, especially for patients with high deductibles or self-pay options.

Walk-In Convenience

Most urgent care centers allow walk-in visits, meaning you don’t need an appointment to receive care.

Immediate Treatment

Because imaging is available on-site, providers can review the results and begin treatment right away. This may include splinting, medications, or referrals to specialists if needed.

Walk-In Urgent Care X-Ray Services

If you think you may need an X-ray, visiting urgent care can help you receive quick answers and treatment without the long ER wait.

At Family First Urgent Care, our locations in Oakhurst, Eatontown, Toms River, and Old Bridge provide on-site digital X-rays 7 days a week , with walk-ins welcome and extended evening hours.

Our team proudly serves patients throughout Monmouth, Ocean, and Middlesex County , offering fast, convenient care for both adults and children.

Finding Reliable COVID-19 Testing in Old Bridge, NJ With Fast Results

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:23:30 GMT

Finding Reliable COVID-19 Testing in Old Bridge, NJ With Fast Results

COVID-19 testing in Old Bridge, NJ provides access to both rapid antigen and PCR tests with fast result turnaround, official documentation for travel or work, and clear guidance on isolation requirements and next steps based on your test outcome.

What Are the Differences Between Rapid and PCR COVID-19 Tests?

Rapid antigen tests deliver results in fifteen to thirty minutes by detecting viral proteins, while PCR tests identify genetic material and take one to three days for lab processing.

Rapid tests are ideal for quick screening before events or when you need immediate results. They are highly accurate when viral loads are high, typically during the first week of symptoms. PCR tests are more sensitive and can detect infection earlier or later in the illness course, making them the preferred option for definitive diagnosis or when symptoms are mild.

Both test types use nasal swabs. Your provider recommends the appropriate test based on your symptoms, exposure history, and timing needs.

When Should You Get Tested for COVID-19?

Testing is recommended if you develop symptoms, have known exposure to an infected person, or need clearance for travel, work, or medical procedures.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, fatigue, body aches, loss of taste or smell, and shortness of breath. If you were exposed to someone with COVID-19, testing is advised even without symptoms, ideally five days after exposure. Many employers, schools, and healthcare facilities require negative tests before returning to work or scheduling elective procedures.

Repeat testing may be necessary if initial results are negative but symptoms persist or worsen. Providers help determine the right testing schedule for your situation.

How Do You Interpret COVID-19 Test Results and Next Steps?

A positive result means you have an active COVID-19 infection and should isolate to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Isolation typically lasts at least five days from symptom onset, provided symptoms are improving and you've been fever-free for twenty-four hours without medication. After isolation, wearing a mask around others for an additional five days reduces transmission risk. Your provider discusses symptom management, when to seek urgent care for worsening symptoms, and whether antiviral treatment is appropriate.

A negative result suggests no current infection, but it doesn't rule out exposure if tested too early. If symptoms develop after a negative test, retesting is recommended. Providers issue official documentation for employment, school, or travel purposes.

Old Bridge's diverse residential neighborhoods mean many families need accessible urgent care services in Old Bridge that include COVID-19 testing and evaluation for respiratory symptoms without long waits.

Do You Need Official Documentation for Work or Travel?

Many employers, schools, and travel destinations require official test documentation that includes your name, test type, date, and result signed by a healthcare provider.

Walk-in testing facilities provide printed or electronic documentation immediately after your rapid test or once PCR results are available. These documents meet most institutional requirements for return-to-work clearances, school attendance, or domestic and international travel. Some destinations have specific timing requirements, such as testing within seventy-two hours of departure, so confirm requirements before your appointment.

Digital health passes and travel apps often accept results uploaded directly from certified testing sites, streamlining the verification process.

Can You Get Antiviral Treatment if You Test Positive?

Antiviral medications such as Paxlovid can reduce symptom severity and prevent complications if started within five days of symptom onset.

These treatments are most beneficial for individuals at higher risk of severe illness, including those over sixty-five, people with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, and those with weakened immune systems. Your provider evaluates your risk factors, reviews your medication list for potential interactions, and prescribes antivirals if appropriate.

Antivirals are taken orally for five days and work best when started early. Not everyone qualifies for treatment, so testing and evaluation soon after symptoms begin maximizes treatment options.

How Does Middlesex County's Commuter Population Affect Testing Demand?

Old Bridge's role as a commuter hub means residents frequently need testing for workplace requirements, travel, or exposure from high-traffic environments.

Proximity to New York City and major New Jersey employment centers increases exposure risk and demand for convenient testing. Many employers require regular screening for on-site workers or testing after potential exposure events. The township's family-oriented demographics also drive demand for pediatric testing before school attendance or daycare return.

Extended hours and walk-in availability accommodate work schedules and urgent testing needs. Rapid result options support time-sensitive situations such as pre-travel testing or same-day workplace clearance.

Residents managing workplace exposure also appreciate access to work-related injury treatment in Old Bridge and occupational health services that address both physical injuries and infectious disease concerns in one location.

COVID-19 testing at Family First Primary Care in Old Bridge, NJ ensures accurate results, official documentation, and clear guidance on isolation and treatment based on your test outcome. Start your testing visit for rapid or PCR options that fit your timeline and needs.

Accessing Comprehensive Primary Care in Brick Township, NJ for Adults

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:23:29 GMT

Accessing Comprehensive Primary Care in Brick Township, NJ for Adults

Primary care in Brick Township, NJ provides comprehensive medical services for patients ages fifteen and older, including routine checkups, chronic disease management, preventive screenings, and coordination of specialty care for ongoing health needs.

What Services Are Included in Primary Care?

Primary care encompasses preventive exams, management of chronic conditions, acute illness treatment, and coordination with specialists when advanced care is needed.

Annual wellness visits include physical exams, vital sign monitoring, and health screenings tailored to your age and risk factors. Chronic disease management addresses conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and asthma with medication adjustments and lifestyle counseling. Acute care treats infections, injuries, and sudden illnesses that arise between scheduled visits.

Primary care providers also order lab work, interpret results, and refer you to specialists when conditions require advanced treatment. This continuity of care improves health outcomes by ensuring all aspects of your medical needs are addressed in a coordinated manner.

How Often Should You Schedule Primary Care Checkups?

Most adults benefit from annual checkups, though frequency may increase based on age, chronic conditions, or preventive care needs.

Younger adults without chronic health issues typically need yearly exams to monitor baseline health and update immunizations. Adults over fifty or those managing conditions like diabetes or heart disease may require visits every three to six months to adjust treatments and monitor lab values. Preventive screenings such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol panels, and cancer screenings follow recommended schedules based on age and risk factors.

Your provider develops a personalized care plan that includes visit frequency and recommended screenings. Regular checkups catch problems early when they're easier to treat.

Which Chronic Conditions Are Managed in Primary Care?

Primary care providers manage common chronic conditions including diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, and thyroid disorders.

Diabetes management involves monitoring blood sugar levels, adjusting medications, and providing dietary guidance to prevent complications. Hypertension treatment includes medication titration and lifestyle modifications to reduce cardiovascular risk. Cholesterol management combines statin therapy with diet and exercise recommendations. Asthma care focuses on symptom control and inhaler technique to prevent exacerbations.

Providers also address mental health concerns such as anxiety and depression, prescribing medications or referring to counseling services when needed. Coordinated care ensures that all conditions are managed holistically rather than in isolation.

Brick Township residents appreciate convenient access to blood draw and lab testing services in Brick Township as part of primary care visits, streamlining chronic disease monitoring and preventive screenings.

Can Primary Care Providers Prescribe Medications?

Yes, primary care providers prescribe medications for acute illnesses, chronic conditions, and preventive care within their scope of practice.

They prescribe antibiotics for bacterial infections, inhalers for asthma, insulin or oral medications for diabetes, antihypertensives for blood pressure control, and statins for cholesterol management. Providers also prescribe short-term medications for acute issues such as pain relief, anti-nausea drugs, or allergy treatments. Prescription renewals for ongoing conditions are managed during routine visits or through follow-up communication.

When specialized medications or treatments fall outside primary care expertise, providers refer you to appropriate specialists and coordinate your overall care plan.

Do You Need Referrals to See Specialists?

Referral requirements depend on your insurance plan, but primary care providers coordinate specialist visits and share medical records to ensure continuity of care.

Some insurance plans require referrals for specialist visits to be covered, while others allow direct specialist access. Even when referrals aren't mandatory, involving your primary care provider ensures that specialists receive your complete medical history and lab results. Providers help identify the right specialists for your condition and follow up on specialist recommendations to integrate them into your overall care plan.

This coordination prevents duplicated testing, conflicting treatments, and gaps in care that can occur when seeing multiple providers independently.

How Does Brick Township's Aging Population Influence Primary Care Needs?

Brick Township has a significant population of older adults, increasing demand for chronic disease management, preventive screenings, and mobility-friendly healthcare access.

The township's retirement communities and senior-dense neighborhoods require providers skilled in geriatric care, including medication management for multiple conditions and fall prevention strategies. Ocean County's coastal climate and active lifestyle culture also mean providers address joint health, skin cancer screenings, and seasonal respiratory issues common in the area.

Primary care practices serving Brick Township often offer extended hours and accessible facilities to accommodate older patients who may need assistance with transportation or mobility. Providers familiar with regional health trends deliver more relevant preventive care and chronic disease counseling.

Residents managing work-related health concerns also benefit from nearby occupational medicine services in Brick Township that complement primary care for workplace injuries and employment health requirements.

Primary care services at Family First Primary Care in Brick Township, NJ provide continuous health management, preventive screenings, and chronic disease care for adults seeking a medical home. Experience coordinated, patient-centered care to establish or continue your primary care relationship.

Explore Walk-In Diagnostic X-Ray Services in West Long Branch, NJ

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:23:27 GMT

Explore Walk-In Diagnostic X-Ray Services in West Long Branch, NJ

X-ray services in West Long Branch, NJ deliver on-site diagnostic imaging for bone injuries, fractures, sprains, and joint problems with immediate evaluation by trained technicians, allowing same-visit diagnosis and treatment planning without separate radiology appointments.

How Do Walk-In X-Ray Services Improve Injury Evaluation?

Walk-in X-ray services eliminate delays by providing imaging, interpretation, and treatment recommendations during a single visit, speeding recovery.

Traditional injury care often requires visiting an urgent care clinic for evaluation, then traveling to a separate imaging center for X-rays, and returning for results. On-site X-ray services streamline this process by capturing images immediately after your provider examines the injury. The provider reviews images on-site and explains findings while you're still in the office.

This approach reduces waiting times, eliminates extra appointments, and allows treatment to begin the same day. For fractures, splints or casts can be applied immediately. For sprains, you receive care instructions and follow-up plans before leaving.

What Types of Injuries and Conditions Are Diagnosed With X-Rays?

X-rays visualize bone fractures, dislocations, arthritis, foreign objects, and certain soft tissue injuries to guide appropriate treatment.

Fractures appear as breaks or cracks in bone structure and help providers determine whether casting, splinting, or surgical referral is needed. Dislocations show bones out of their normal position, requiring reduction and immobilization. X-rays detect arthritis by revealing joint space narrowing and bone changes. Foreign objects such as glass or metal embedded in tissue show up clearly on X-ray images.

While X-rays primarily image bone, they can also identify certain soft tissue conditions such as fluid accumulation in joints or significant swelling patterns that suggest ligament damage.

Do X-Rays Pose Health Risks From Radiation Exposure?

Modern X-ray equipment uses minimal radiation doses, and the diagnostic benefits far outweigh the small exposure risk for most patients.

X-ray machines are calibrated to use the lowest effective radiation dose needed to produce clear images. A single X-ray delivers less radiation than you receive from natural environmental sources over several days. Technicians use lead shielding to protect areas not being imaged, further reducing exposure.

Pregnant patients should inform providers before X-rays are taken, as alternative imaging or shielding may be recommended. For non-pregnant patients, the risk from diagnostic X-rays is negligible compared to the benefit of accurate diagnosis.

West Long Branch's proximity to Monmouth University means many young adults and athletes need quick access to sports physical services in West Long Branch and imaging for athletic injuries during training seasons.

Can X-Rays Detect All Types of Fractures?

X-rays detect most fractures, but some hairline fractures or stress injuries may not appear on initial imaging and require follow-up or advanced imaging.

Obvious fractures with displacement or angulation are immediately visible on X-rays. Hairline fractures, especially in small bones or joints, may be subtle and require careful examination by experienced providers. Stress fractures caused by repetitive impact may not show on X-rays until healing begins and new bone forms around the injury site.

If symptoms suggest a fracture but X-rays appear normal, providers may recommend follow-up imaging in one to two weeks or refer you for MRI if immediate diagnosis is critical. X-rays remain the first-line imaging for suspected fractures due to their speed, accessibility, and accuracy.

How Quickly Are X-Ray Results Available?

Results are typically available within minutes to hours, allowing same-visit diagnosis and treatment planning without waiting for outside reports.

Digital X-ray systems produce images instantly on computer screens. Providers review images immediately and discuss findings with you during your visit. For complex cases, images may be sent to radiologists for formal interpretation, with reports available within a few hours. This rapid turnaround supports timely treatment decisions, especially for fractures requiring immobilization or referral to orthopedic specialists.

Same-visit results mean you leave with a clear diagnosis, treatment plan, and any necessary referrals or prescriptions.

How Does Monmouth County's Active Lifestyle Culture Affect X-Ray Demand?

West Long Branch's college population and proximity to recreational areas increase demand for imaging related to sports injuries, falls, and outdoor activities.

Monmouth University students and local athletes frequently need X-rays for fractures, sprains, and overuse injuries sustained during training or competition. The town's tree-lined residential streets and parks see seasonal increases in injuries from cycling, running, and recreational sports. Winter ice and snow contribute to slip-and-fall injuries requiring wrist, ankle, and hip imaging.

Providers familiar with regional activity patterns recognize common injury mechanisms and interpret X-rays with context about how injuries occurred. This local knowledge improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment recommendations tailored to patients' activity goals.

Residents also benefit from nearby urgent care services in West Long Branch that combine walk-in availability with on-site diagnostic imaging for efficient evaluation of sudden injuries and illnesses.

X-ray services at Family First Primary Care in West Long Branch, NJ provide fast, accurate diagnostic imaging with same-visit results and treatment planning for bone and joint injuries. Discover convenient diagnostic care for walk-in or scheduled imaging appointments.

Workers' Compensation Treatment in Old Bridge, NJ for Workplace Injuries

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:45:01 GMT

Workers' Compensation Treatment in Old Bridge, NJ for Workplace Injuries

Workers' compensation treatment in Old Bridge, NJ provides specialized care for work-related injuries, offering same-day appointments, fast reporting, and direct communication with employers to streamline your recovery process.

What Is Workers' Compensation Treatment?

Workers' compensation treatment addresses injuries or illnesses that occur on the job, ensuring you receive medical care while coordinating necessary documentation and reporting with your employer and insurer.

When you are injured at work, you need prompt medical attention and proper documentation to support your workers' compensation claim. Medical providers evaluate your injury, create a treatment plan, and complete the required paperwork. This coordination helps you focus on healing rather than navigating administrative tasks.

Treatment may include wound care, splinting, physical therapy referrals, or follow-up visits. Providers also determine if you can return to work immediately or need temporary restrictions. This comprehensive approach protects both your health and your employment status.

How Does Same-Day Scheduling Benefit Injured Workers?

Same-day scheduling allows injured workers to receive immediate medical evaluation and treatment, preventing delays that could worsen injuries or complicate workers' compensation claims.

Time is critical after a workplace injury. Prompt treatment reduces the risk of complications and demonstrates that you took your injury seriously. Same-day appointments also ensure that documentation is timely and accurate, which insurance companies require.

You do not have to wait days for an opening or visit an emergency room for non-life-threatening injuries. Fast access to care means you can begin recovery sooner and return to work safely. For additional support, occupational medicine services in Old Bridge, NJ provide comprehensive workplace health solutions.

Can Urgent Care Handle Return-to-Work Evaluations?

Yes, urgent care providers conduct return-to-work evaluations to assess your recovery progress and determine whether you can resume job duties safely or need continued restrictions.

After treatment, your employer and insurer need medical clearance before you return to work. Providers review your healing, test range of motion, and assess functional abilities related to your job tasks. If you are ready to return without limitations, they document full clearance.

If you still need accommodations, such as avoiding heavy lifting or limiting hours, the provider specifies these restrictions clearly. This process protects you from re-injury and helps your employer plan appropriate work assignments. Having x-ray services in Old Bridge, NJ available ensures complete evaluation if imaging is needed during follow-up visits.

Does Old Bridge Have High Workplace Injury Rates?

Old Bridge has diverse industries including logistics, retail, and construction, which contribute to workplace injury rates that require accessible workers' compensation care throughout the year.

Warehouse and distribution centers in the area see injuries from lifting, repetitive motion, and equipment use. Retail workers experience slips, falls, and strain injuries. Construction sites present risks of cuts, fractures, and tool-related accidents. Quick access to treatment helps workers in these sectors recover faster and reduces lost workdays.

Local providers familiar with common workplace hazards can tailor treatment and prevention advice. Understanding the regional employment landscape ensures that care aligns with the realities workers face daily.

Family First Urgent Care offers workers' compensation treatment with same-day appointments and direct employer communication. Start your recovery by calling 732-531-0100 to schedule a visit in Old Bridge, NJ.

On-Site X-Ray Services Available in Eatontown, NJ Seven Days a Week

Fri, 20 Feb 2026 08:45:02 GMT

On-Site X-Ray Services Available in Eatontown, NJ Seven Days a Week

On-site X-ray services in Eatontown, NJ offer quick evaluation of injuries and fractures seven days a week, performed by trained technicians to support accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

How Do On-Site X-Rays Improve Your Visit?

On-site X-rays eliminate the need to travel to a separate imaging center, allowing your medical provider to view results immediately and begin treatment during the same visit.

When you arrive with a suspected fracture or injury, the provider orders an X-ray on the spot. Trained technicians perform the imaging safely and efficiently. Within minutes, your provider reviews the images and explains the findings.

This streamlined process saves you time and reduces the stress of coordinating multiple appointments. You receive a clear diagnosis and treatment plan before you leave, whether that involves splinting, referrals, or instructions for home care.

What Types of Injuries Require X-Ray Imaging?

X-ray imaging is used to evaluate fractures, dislocations, sprains, and other bone or joint injuries that need visual confirmation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

If you fall and hurt your wrist, ankle, or shoulder, an X-ray can reveal whether a bone is broken or just bruised. Sports injuries often require imaging to rule out fractures before recommending physical therapy. X-rays also help detect foreign objects lodged in the body, such as splinters or small items swallowed by children.

Chest X-rays can assess lung conditions when respiratory symptoms are severe. For patients needing comprehensive evaluation, urgent care services in Eatontown, NJ provide both clinical assessment and diagnostic imaging. Having this capability on-site means faster answers and less uncertainty.

Do You Need an Appointment for X-Ray Services?

No appointment is necessary for X-ray services at urgent care facilities; walk-in access allows you to receive imaging whenever you need it during operating hours.

Injuries and accidents do not follow a schedule, so urgent care offers flexible access. You can arrive during business hours any day of the week and request an X-ray as part of your evaluation. The provider determines if imaging is medically appropriate based on your symptoms and physical examination.

Walk-in X-ray services are especially helpful on weekends and evenings when most imaging centers are closed. This convenience ensures you do not have to wait until Monday morning to find out if a bone is broken.

Are X-Ray Facilities in Eatontown Equipped for All Ages?

X-ray facilities in Eatontown are equipped to safely image patients of all ages, including children and adults, with techniques tailored to minimize radiation exposure and ensure comfort.

Technicians adjust settings based on the patient's size and the area being imaged to keep radiation doses as low as possible. Children may need extra support or positioning aids to stay still during the brief scan. Providers explain the process to young patients to reduce anxiety.

Adults with mobility challenges receive assistance to ensure accurate images without discomfort. Having pediatric urgent care services in Eatontown, NJ nearby means families can access specialized care and imaging in one location. This adaptability makes X-ray services accessible and safe for everyone in the community.

Family First Urgent Care provides on-site X-ray services seven days a week to support fast, accurate diagnosis. Plan your visit by calling 732-531-0100 and experience convenient imaging in Eatontown, NJ.

Pediatric Urgent Care for Children in Toms River, NJ

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:25:36 GMT

Pediatric Urgent Care for Children in Toms River, NJ

Pediatric urgent care in Toms River, NJ provides specialized treatment for children of all ages who have common infections, illnesses, and injuries in a supportive, family-friendly setting.

What Makes Pediatric Urgent Care Different?

Pediatric urgent care focuses specifically on children's medical needs, offering age-appropriate treatment from providers experienced in treating young patients with compassion and efficiency.

Children often need different approaches to diagnosis and care than adults. Medical providers trained in pediatrics understand developmental stages and can communicate effectively with kids. The environment is designed to put children at ease, reducing anxiety during visits.

Treatment plans consider factors unique to growing bodies, such as dosing medications based on weight and developmental milestones. This specialized focus helps parents feel confident their child receives appropriate and gentle care.

Which Illnesses Bring Children to Urgent Care?

Common illnesses treated at pediatric urgent care include ear infections, strep throat, respiratory infections, stomach bugs, and skin rashes that require prompt medical attention.

Ear infections cause pain and fever, and urgent care can diagnose and treat them quickly. Strep throat requires a rapid test and antibiotic prescription to prevent complications. Respiratory infections like croup or bronchiolitis need evaluation to ensure your child breathes comfortably.

Stomach viruses causing vomiting or diarrhea may lead to dehydration, which providers can assess and manage. Skin conditions such as impetigo or unexplained rashes also benefit from timely diagnosis. For families seeking care near you, urgent care services in Toms River, NJ offer convenient access. Prompt treatment helps children recover faster and return to school and play.

Can Pediatric Urgent Care Handle Minor Injuries?

Yes, pediatric urgent care treats minor injuries including cuts, sprains, fractures, burns, and other trauma that does not require emergency room intervention.

Children are active and accidents happen, from playground falls to sports injuries. Urgent care providers can clean and close small lacerations, evaluate twisted ankles, and splint suspected fractures. On-site X-ray services allow quick imaging to assess bone injuries without a separate trip.

Burns from hot liquids or surfaces can be assessed and treated appropriately. Providers also remove foreign objects from ears or noses, a common issue with curious toddlers. Having pediatric expertise ensures injuries are managed with the child's comfort and safety in mind.

Do Toms River Families Face Unique Health Challenges?

Toms River families experience health challenges related to seasonal allergies, beach-related injuries, and regional environmental factors that impact children's wellness throughout the year.

Spring and fall bring high pollen counts that trigger allergic reactions and asthma flare-ups in children. Summer activities at the shore increase the risk of sunburns, jellyfish stings, and minor cuts from shells or rocks. Winter weather leads to more colds, flu, and indoor injuries.

Local environmental awareness helps parents recognize when symptoms need professional evaluation. Access to x-ray services in Toms River, NJ supports accurate diagnosis of fractures from sports or playground accidents. Understanding these regional patterns allows families to respond quickly when their child needs care.

Family First Urgent Care welcomes children of all ages and provides compassionate treatment in a family-friendly setting. Connect with our team at 732-531-0100 to learn more about pediatric urgent care in Toms River, NJ.

Walk-In Urgent Care Services in Oakhurst, NJ for Fast Relief

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 15:25:33 GMT

Walk-In Urgent Care Services in Oakhurst, NJ for Fast Relief

Walk-in urgent care services in Oakhurst, NJ provide immediate treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries for adults and children aged 15 and up without requiring an appointment.

How Do Walk-In Urgent Care Services Work?

Walk-in urgent care allows you to arrive at the clinic whenever you need medical attention, receive timely evaluation, and get treated without scheduling ahead.

You simply walk through the door when you experience a medical issue that cannot wait for a regular doctor visit but does not require an emergency room. The staff checks you in quickly and a qualified medical provider evaluates your condition. This approach saves you time compared to waiting days for a primary care appointment.

Treatment happens on-site for common illnesses like flu, infections, and minor injuries. You leave with clear instructions and any necessary prescriptions to help you recover at home.

Which Conditions Are Treated at Urgent Care Facilities?

Urgent care centers address a wide range of non-emergency medical conditions including respiratory infections, minor cuts, sprains, and common childhood illnesses for patients 15 and older.

You can seek care for coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections, and urinary tract infections. Providers also treat skin conditions such as rashes and minor burns. If you twist an ankle or strain a muscle, urgent care offers evaluation and initial treatment.

For injuries that might involve fractures, the facility can perform on-site X-rays to guide diagnosis. Many families appreciate the convenience of pediatric urgent care services in Oakhurst, NJ for younger children as well. This range of services ensures you receive appropriate care without the cost and wait times of hospital emergency rooms.

When Should You Visit an Urgent Care Clinic?

Visit an urgent care clinic when you have a health concern that needs prompt attention but is not immediately life-threatening.

If you develop sudden symptoms like fever, persistent cough, or abdominal pain during evenings or weekends, urgent care offers accessible treatment. You should also visit if you experience minor injuries such as cuts requiring stitches, sprains, or suspected fractures. Urgent care is ideal when your regular doctor is unavailable and you need medical advice or a prescription quickly.

However, if you have chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe bleeding, or loss of consciousness, you should go directly to an emergency room. Knowing the difference helps you get the right level of care at the right time.

Does Oakhurst, NJ Experience Seasonal Illness Patterns?

Oakhurst experiences seasonal illness surges during fall and winter when respiratory infections and flu cases increase throughout the Jersey Shore region.

Colder months bring higher rates of colds, flu, and bronchitis as people spend more time indoors. Coastal humidity and temperature swings can also trigger sinus issues and allergies. During these peak periods, walk-in urgent care provides a reliable option for prompt evaluation and treatment. Summer months see more minor injuries and skin infections related to outdoor activities and beach visits.

Having access to x-ray services in Oakhurst, NJ helps diagnose injuries quickly year-round. Understanding these local health trends allows you to plan ahead and seek care when symptoms first appear.

Family First Urgent Care offers walk-in services seven days a week to meet your immediate medical needs. Schedule your visit by calling 732-531-0100 and experience prompt, professional treatment in Oakhurst, NJ.

Strep Throat: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment

Wed, 03 May 2023 23:19:00 GMT

Strep Throat: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment

While working in the Urgent Care it is not uncommon to see multiple patients on the same day with the same complaint. One of our most common visit reasons is for a complaint of “sore throat”. While there may be many different reasons for a sore throat, one of the most widely familiar causes is Group A Streptococcus (GAS) or “strep throat”. GAS is the leading cause of tonsillopharyngitis in both adults and children throughout the world.

Most common clinical features include fever, headache and sore throat with an abrupt onset. Patients may also have associated nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. Possible physical exam findings include tonsillar exudates, palatal petechiae, rash and enlarged/tender anterior cervical lymph nodes. Both rapid testing and throat culture are used for diagnosis and confirmation. If initial rapid testing in office is negative in a child or adolescent, it is recommended to have a follow-up throat culture due to the possibility of missing up to 30% of cases on the initial rapid testing. Providers also used what is known as the Centor Criteria to assist in determining which adults should be tested for GAS. All criteria receive one point if positive and patients with greater than 3 points should be tested. Criteria include: tonsillar exudates, tender anterior cervical lymphadenopathy, fever and absence of a cough. However, patient’s with less than 3 points should be tested if there is reasonable suspicion.

First-line treatment for children and adults positive for GAS is an oral penicillin. For patients with a penicillin allergy an oral cephalosporin, clindamycin or azithromycin are other options. Supportive care is also recommended, including rest, increased fluid intake, soft diet, and NSAIDs/acetaminophen for pain control. The transmission of GAS is reduced through improved general hygiene, hand washing, and testing for GAS after exposure to known positive contacts. It is important that we quickly identify and treat all positive GAS patients to avoid potential complications like otitis media, peritonsillar abscess and acute rheumatic fever.

While there are many different reasons why a patient may have a sore throat, GAS should continue to be tested for and treated when necessary. Thank you!

By: Emily Reiser, PA-C

Source: UpToDate

Dog and Cat Bite Evaluation and Treatment by Phil Davidson

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 23:20:28 GMT

Dog and Cat Bite Evaluation and Treatment by Phil Davidson

Dog and cat bites are some of the most common complaints presenting to the urgent care. They range from simple scratches to full lacerations and deep puncture wounds. The wounds are handled and treated differently depending on location and the type of bite/ laceration.

Dog bites and wounds are more common in children, while cat bites are more common in adult women. In children, dog bites/scratches are often found on the head and neck, whereas adults typically get them on the extremities. Cat bites are more often on the extremities as well. Due to cat bites typically penetrating the skin deeper and punctures being more common, they are at higher risk of causing infection.

Most importantly, animal bites need to be debrided and cleaned thoroughly to help prevent infection. Typically, lacerations can be closed by primary closure or sutures. Dermabond should never be used for animal bites. However, there are several instances where the wound should be left to secondary closure (left open). These include: crush injuries, puncture wounds, cate bites other than the face, wounds on hands and feet, wounds over 12 hours old, wounds in immunocompromised patients, and patients with a history of venous stasis. These should be left open, but they can be “loosely closed” with sutures if they are gaping, as long as they remain open.

Finally, antibiotics aren’t always necessary, but are typically given prophylactically to help prevent infection. With cat bites, they are always given. Augmentin is the first-line choice. If a patient has a penicillin allergy, combination therapy such as doxycycline with metronidazole can typically be used.

In conclusion, animal bite wounds, especially from cats and dogs are very commonly seen in the urgent care setting. Cleaning the wound is the most important step to prevent infection. The location and type of wound determines the next steps. They should be treated on a case-by-case basis

Knowing The Facts About Pneumonia by Samantha Pellechio, PA-C

Fri, 03 Feb 2023 23:21:40 GMT

Knowing The Facts About Pneumonia by Samantha Pellechio, PA-C

As professionals in the medical field, we take for granted the knowledge we have acquired while in school or through our clinical experiences. Certain medical illnesses or conditions we may feel are common knowledge, the general public may not be as familiar with or even considered common to them. A great example of this is the topic of pneumonia. Patients will frequently come into the urgent care and emergency rooms with a true fear that they have pneumonia. This fear seems to be perpetuated by misinformation or an overall lack of knowledge regarding critical facts about what the condition is. A major component of our positions is not only to discover and diagnosis illness but also educate our patients about these illnesses in the process. Today I’d like to discuss some of the key points surrounding Pneumonia, including what it is, what causes it, how it presents itself, how to diagnose, and how to prevent it.

Pneumonia is an infection of the air cells in the lungs. The infection can be unilateral or bilateral, multifocal or singular. It can be viral, bacterial, or fungal. It can sometimes show up on x-ray and sometimes might not. It may not be a simple diagnosis to make because it is not cut and dry. A large misconception about pneumonia is that is more prevalent in the elderly population. The truth is that pneumonia can affect all age groups. However, those who are greater than 65 years old and infants are more likely to have more serious complications from the infection. According to the WHO, World Health Organization, pneumonia accounts for 14% of all deaths in children under 5 years old. On average pneumonia can cause 50,000 deaths each year. The most common bacterial pneumonia is pneumococcal and the more common viral pneumonia come from RSV, influenza and covid-19. This year we have seen a dramatic increase in RSV infections requiring hospitalization in both the elderly and pediatric population.

So what do we look for? A common misconception is that patients have to be very sick appearing to have pneumonia. This is false. Symptoms can range from the severe to mild. Severe symptoms include cough, fever, chills, wheezing, hypoxia, and sputum production. While more mild symptoms may consist of feeling simply fatigued or generalized malaise. There are some who may require hospitalization and intervention, and others who are sick but do not require bedrest, hence the term walking pneumonia.

Now that we understand the variety of symptoms our patients can present with; how do we diagnose? We first look at how the patient appears and their vital signs. Are their oxygen levels low? Do they have a fever? Are they ill-appearing? After we establish that their symptoms are suspicious for pneumonia, we can use other tools to help us make the diagnosis. These include both lab testing and imaging. Lab testing includes your basic blood testing including CBC, and CMP and more specific testing such as procalcitonin, sputum analysis, and blood cultures. In urgent care we are limited and more likely will not be ordering such lab tests. However, we are able to evaluate by ordering an x-ray. Chest x-rays are the gold standard in the diagnosis of pneumonia. When investigating for pneumonia on chest x-ray we are looking for infiltrates. Infiltrates are the appearance of shadows that may represent bacteria, fluid, plus and other abnormalities in the lungs. They can vary from being every small, to large consolidations. For example, Covid pneumonia can cause multiple scattered small patches throughout both lungs appearing like ground glass. Whereas other types such as mycoplasma or atypical pneumonia, might not show anything at all. Therefore, to make a diagnosis it takes seeing the patient as a whole. Taking in their appearance, knowing their symptoms as well as evaluating their imaging.

How can it be prevented? Like most illnesses the prevention of pneumonia starts with lifestyle changes. It starts with cutting out bad habits including smoking and alcohol abuse. Exercise and good nutrition can also play a role. And finally immunization. There are vaccines for pneumococcal pneumonia, covid-19 and influenza. By vaccinating ourselves and those that are higher risk of severe disease we can lessen the morbidity and mortality of pneumonia as a whole.

In conclusion, we should all now have a deeper understanding of what pneumonia is, how to diagnose it and how to recognize its severity. It is now our duty to spread that knowledge to our patients and give them the tools necessary to identify this illness. One of the most difficult aspects of being a healthcare professional is attempting to educate the general public when they already have preconceived ideas about certain disease states. These preconceived ideas or stigmas can be a difficult obstacle. However, it is important for us to break those stigmas and overcome those obstacles; to educate the public to the best of our abilities. So we can ultimately lessen the detrimental impact this illness may have.

Viral season is here … simple ways to boost your immune system

Tue, 10 Jan 2023 23:22:24 GMT

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In order for our immune system to work effectively, fighting infection, viruses and even cancers we need to treat it properly. There are many factors that influence our immune system's ability to work effectively. Vaccines build immunity against specific diseases, such as Influenza, COVID and pneumococcal pneumonia.

However, there are other ways in which we can help our bodies fight off infections and viruses.

First, what is our immune system? Our immune system is constantly at work fighting off invaders. Our immune system is made up of a complex network of cells, organs proteins and antibodies, known as immunoglobulins. Our immune systems are fast at work saving our lives on a daily basis by not only fighting off invaders such as viruses, bacteria and parasites that don’t belong but, also by ridding the body of dead or faulty cells.

Eating well, food is our best and most common source of vitamins and minerals, it is important to each a wide variety of fruits vegetables, lean proteins, and grains.

Each containing different nutrients necessary for proper immune function. It is also important some vitamins and minerals in too large a quantity can be harmful and discussion regarding supplements should occur with your health care professional.

Exercise helps to reduce stress and anxiety, helps us sleep better and helps us better maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight effects our body's function and BMIs over 30 have been linked to impaired immune function and may in fact decrease vaccine effectiveness. Increasing body temperature during exercise helps to kill bacteria, may help to flush bacteria out of the airways and reduces stress hormone which suppresses the immune system.

Sleep deprivation can lead to a wide variety of disorders and has been linked to decreased immune function. Sleep and sleep quality should not be viewed as a luxury but as a necessity/priority in increasing immune response and fighting disease in general.

Smoking and alcohol use decrease the body's ability to fight disease and in fact has been linked to several immune system issues such as rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking weakens the lungs making them more susceptible to disease.

Lastly, one may think antibiotics work with the immune system, they can in fact weaken the immune system. Antibiotics do not directly interact with

immune cells but, unnecessary antibiotic use stops your immune system from being stressed causing it to slow down regulation and gets weaker. Therefore, they should only be used when deemed necessary by your healthcare provider.

Catherine Hoch APNc

‘Tis the Season…for Respiratory Viruses By Janine Gilson, PA-C

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:23:03 GMT

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It is the season for respiratory viruses, and it came early this year. We have been dealing with Covid-19 infections but now there is an increase in Influenza and RSV this year. According to one report, there has been twelve times the number of flu cases reported at the beginning of November this year as compared to November 2019. Also, hospitalizations for the flu are higher at this point compared to every previous season since 2010-2011. In addition, RSV has arrived much earlier this year and the number of infections has increased rapidly. Typically, more than 125,000 children younger than one year old are hospitalized annually in the US for RSV. In adults 65 and older, RSV is responsible for 177,000 hospitalizations. Due to the current surge in RSV cases, many hospitals across the country are already short on pediatric beds.

RSV is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infection. It is a virus that is transmitted via respiratory droplets from person to person. It can also survive on hard surfaces for many hours. RSV begins its infection in the upper respiratory tract then it spreads to the lower respiratory tract through cell to cell transfer by inducing syncytia, or a formation of enlarged multinucleated cells due to fusion of the neighboring infected host cells. The incubation period is 2-8 days. Although immunocompetent adults typically have symptoms of rhinorrhea, ST and cough, RSV can cause much more severe symptoms in infants and young children. RSV is the most common cause of bronchiolitis in young children. Symptoms in young children can include rhinorrhea, cough, low grade fever, tachypnea, wheezing, rales, and intercostal and subcostal retractions. Often infants and young children become dehydrated because they cannot clear the mucus from their airways and they subsequently stop eating and drinking. RSV and bronchiolitis are clinical diagnoses, but RSV PCR testing may be helpful to aid in medical decision making. Treatment for RSV is usually supportive measures, such as nasal suctioning. For children who progress to moderate to severe disease, they will need to be hospitalized for supplemental oxygen, fluid replacement and if necessary, mechanical ventilation. According to the 2014 clinical practice guidelines issued by the American Academy of Pediatrics, epinephrine, bronchodilators and corticosteroids are not recommended for treatment of typical RSV bronchiolitis.

RSV in adults who are 65 years old or older, who have chronic heart or lung disease or who are immunocompromised, can cause a patient to need hospitalization. RSV infection tends to worsen Asthma, COPD and CHF. So, it is also important to have RSV on the differential, and test adults for RSV as well.

We know the best way to combat these viruses is preventing the infection in the first place. Important preventative measures are handwashing, disinfecting surfaces, isolating when sick, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick. Mask wearing has also contributed to slowing the spread of viruses. Finally, eating well and getting enough rest is essential to defend ourselves against these respiratory viruses. Let’s hope we all stay well this holiday season!

Monkeypox By Renee May, PA-C

Tue, 11 Oct 2022 23:24:51 GMT

Monkeypox By Renee May, PA-C

Monkeypox is a hot topic in the medical community recently. This is a virus that is similar to that of smallpox, but has a much lower mortality rate.

The transmission of monkeypox can occur from animal to human or from human to human. If a person is in direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected animal or is bit by the animal, then they can become infected. Human-to-human transmission occurs through direct contact with infected sores, bodily fluids, respiratory secretions through prolonged face to face contact, or fomite transmission from infected linens or clothes. Also of note, the virus can cross the placenta of a pregnant woman to the fetus and affect the baby. A person is considered contagious until all sores have scabbed over and healthy skin is developing over them. This typically takes two to four weeks to occur. After an exposure, symptoms can take anywhere from 4-21 days to appear.

Patients often experience systemic symptoms including fever, headache, sore throat, back pain, myalgia, and fatigue and these symptoms typically last for 1-5 days. The rash usually appears 1-2 days before or 4-5 days after the systemic symptoms. The rash associated with monkeypox progress through several stages. The rash begins as

2-5 mm macules. These eventually develop into papules, vesicles or pseudo-pustules. Lesions usually have a central umbilication. The lesions will eventually crust over and fall off after about 7-14 days from onset. The rash associated with monkeypox is often described as painful, but in the healing phase it can become itchy. There are normally about 1-20 lesions on the body and it is very rare to have over 100 lesions present. The lesions usually appear in the anogenital and perioral areas with small number of lesions on the trunk or acral areas of body. It is uncommon for rash to develop inside the mouth.

For most individuals, monkeypox is a self-limited disease with the symptoms lasting from two to four weeks. However, some patients may develop complications or severe disease. During the 2022 global outbreak, few hospitalizations have been reported and most were for the purpose of isolating the patient. Other reasons for hospitalization included provision of adequate pain management and the need to treat secondary infections.

Suspect monkeypox in a patient who has rash with systemic symptoms, especially if monkeypox is circulating in the community or the patient has traveled to West Africa. If suspected, PCR testing for the orthopoxvirus DNA can be done.

The patient should have two swabs performed on skin lesions and sent to lab for confirmatory testing.

Monkeypox is a self-limited illness for most people and will resolve on its own. Supportive care is recommended and some patient may need pain relief for proctitis or tonsillitis such as stool softeners, topical lidocaine, or sitz baths. Tecovirimat is an antiviral that can be used for treatment in certain cases of monkeypox. Patients warranting treatment include: Those with severe disease such as hemorrhagic disease, confluent lesions, encephalitis, or other conditions requiring hospitalization. Those at risk for severe disease such as those younger than eight years of age, people with a history or presence of atopic dermatitis, persons with other active exfoliative skin conditions, persons who are pregnant or breastfeeding, persons with complications such as secondary bacterial infection, dehydration, or bronchopneumonia; immunocompromised patients. Patients with monkeypox infection in traditionally atypical sites that are usually associated with severe pain. Patients with infection of the eye or eyelids.

If someone has been exposed to monkeypox, they can get post-exposure prophylaxis treatment with one of the orthopoxvirus (smallpox) vaccines within 4 days of the exposure. If a patient warrants vaccine for prevention, they should contact the CDC Emergency Operations Center

(770-488-7100).

Sea Lice By Janine Gilson, PA-C

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 23:25:41 GMT

Sea Lice By Janine Gilson, PA-C

Here at the Shore, it’s not uncommon for a patient to come into the Urgent Care saying they have been bit by “Sea Lice.” “Sea Lice” or more appropriately, Seabather’s Eruption, is a summertime ailment of beach goers. The rash is not related to lice at all but is caused by stings from thimble jellyfish larvae,found along the southeast coast of the US, or along the Jersey coast, stings by larvae of a sea anemome called Edwardsiella lineata. Actual sea lice are parasites that feed on fish, not humans. The jelly fish or sea anemome larvae get trapped under the bathing suit triggering the larvae to sting and inject their toxin. The toxin then triggers the bather to have a hypersensitivity reaction which is the rash. The larvae season is generally from May through August with the highest numbers between June and July.

The typical rash is described as very itchy, erythematous papules commonly found in linear or curved distribution on the skin. The lesions may progress to vesicles or pustules. The rash usually occurs on parts of the body that is covered by the bathing suit, but can also occur on the neck, arms, legs and axilla. The rash can begin within minutes or take up to twenty-four hours after swimming in the ocean. Some people report they had a prickly or stinging sensation while still in the water. The rash can last for a few days to a week, sometimes even two weeks. Although rare, children, especially, can have more systemic symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle and joint pain. Also, a history of a prior eruption puts the patient at a higher risk for a more severe presentation.

Treatment of Seabather’s Eruption is straightforward. If a bather suspects hey have been affected by this larvae it is recommended that the person remove their bathing suit ASAP and then rinse off their body. Fresh water can cause the larvae to sting. The bathing suit should be washed in hot water and dried in the clothes dryer to kill the larvae. For the rash, the patient can use hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, colloidal oatmeal, oral antihistamines and NSAIDs. Sometimes an oral corticosteroid is needed for a more severe rash or itching. You may also hear of some home remedies, such as using rubbing alcohol and meat tenderizer, but these are unlikely to help.

My Ear Hurts, and I Want to Know Why! By Emily Reiser, PA-C

Tue, 21 Jun 2022 23:26:33 GMT

My Ear Hurts, and I Want to Know Why!

By Emily Reiser, PA-C

As Urgent Care staff, one of the most common complaints that walk through our door on any given day is the complaint of ear pain. Whether the patient is 5 years old or 95 years old there are many different reasons as to why someone may have pain from the ear. The purpose of this exercise is to explore the most common causes!

Complaint #1: My ear hurts, and I have trouble hearing/my ear feels clogged!

Cerumen impaction or the blockage of the ear canal by wax/skin cells is something that we see patients for all the time. Cerumen, or ear wax, is created by glands in the ear to prevent bacterial growth and protect the eardrum from dirt/debris. When a patient attempts to remove ear wax with q-tips or by putting things in their ears, they tend to cause the cerumen to become tightly packed and cause a blockage. Impaction is normally painless but can become painful when touching the eardrum. An impaction can be resolved using softening drops (Debrox or hydrogen peroxide), ear irrigation (as performed in office), or by suction/manual removal (equipment used in ENT offices). After irrigation, it is always important to re-evaluate the ear and make sure there is no underlying infection or perforation to the eardrum.

Complaint #2: My son is complaining that his ear hurts, is itchy, and now there is discharge!

Summer creates the perfect environment for otitis externa or Swimmer’s Ear! Otitis externa is an infection of the external ear canal most commonly caused by bacteria. The ear canal becomes a great spot for bacteria growth, especially after swimming in a pool/ocean or playing outside where it may be warm/wet. Symptoms include ear pain/itching and sometimes a white/yellow discharge. Swimmer’s ear is treated with antibiotic ear drops and patients are advised to avoid getting water in the ear.

Complaint #3: My daughter has been having a low-grade fever, cough, congestion and is now tugging at her ear!

About 62% of children under the age of 1, and 83% of children under the age of 3 will be diagnosed with Otitis media at least once, with the most common age range being from 6-15 months. Otitis media is an infection of the inner ear usually caused by bacteria. Inner ear infections may also be preceded by URI symptoms, cough, congestion, and runny nose. Other environmental/social risk factors that increase a child’s risk for otitis media include going to daycare, living in a home with smokers, and babies who are given bottles at bedtime while laying down. Otitis media is treated with oral antibiotics with follow-up to ENT if the issue becomes recurrent.

While there are many other causes of ear pain, these three complaints are the most common that we will see in the Urgent Care.

Strep Throat: What you need to know

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 23:28:31 GMT

Strep Throat: What you need to know

What is Strep Throat:

Viruses are the most common cause for a sore throat. Strep throat is an infection in the throat and tonsils caused by a bacteria known as group A Streptococcus.

The signs and symptoms of Strep throat differ from a virus.

Other symptoms may also include a headache, stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting especially in children. Sometimes a patient with strep throat may develop a rash known as scarlet fever.

How do you get strep throat:

Group A strep lives in the nose and throat and easily spread to other people by talking, sneezing, or coughing through small respiratory droplets that contain the bacteria. To those exposed to Group A strep, it takes usually two to five days for someone to become ill with strep throat. Close contact with another person with strep throat is the most common risk factor.

Though anyone can get strep throat, it is more common among children ages 5 to 15 years old than in adults. It is very rare in children younger than 3 years old. Adults who are at increased risk for strep throat include parents of school aged children and adults who are in frequent contact with children such as teachers and daycare workers.

Testing and Treatment:

After examining the patient with a sore throat, if indicated, the provider will swab the throat to test for strep throat. There are two types of tests: a rapid test which will be performed at the time of the visit and quickly determine if there is group A strep. If the test is positive, the patient will be prescribed antibiotics. Amoxicillin is the recommended first drug of choice while other antibiotics are prescribed for those patients who are allergic to penicillin.

Antibiotics help prevent the spread of the infection

Patients with strep throat should stay home from school, work, or daycare until they have been taking antibiotics for at least 12 hours and no longer have a fever
Complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed and do not stop even if you start to feel better

For children and teens, a throat culture should also be obtained and sent to the lab for testing. While this test takes more time than the rapid test, it is important in this age group to perform the test to identify untreated strep which could cause rheumatic fever if left untreated. According to the CDC, it is usually not necessary to do a throat culture for an adult with a negative rapid strep test since they are generally not at risk for rheumatic fever. Patients without symptoms who test positive usually do not need antibiotics.

How to protect yourself and others from getting strep is to:

Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze by using a tissue or your sleeve not your hand
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water is not available
Avoid using glasses, utensils, plates after someone who is sick uses them.

The Dangers of Sunscreen?! By Andrea Wieder, RN, MSN-FNP

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 23:29:58 GMT

The Dangers of Sunscreen?!

By Andrea Wieder, RN, MSN-FNP

We all know that sunscreen is incredibly important during this time of year. It protects our skin from sun damage and keeps us looking young if we routinely apply it. Did you know there are certain chemicals in sunscreen that have not been studied long enough for us to know their long-term effects? These chemicals may be cancer causing themselves! The chemicals oxybenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octcrylene, and avobenzone are all common ingredients in sunscreens, but we do not know their long-term effect. We do know they are systemically absorbed, and can be found weeks after use on the skin and in the blood. In Europe, many of these sunscreen ingredients have been banned, and at this time the FDA has not formulated an opinion on them. The most concerning chemical is oxybenzone since it is a known endocrine disrupter - meaning it can mess with your hormones!

The two chemicals which have been studied well and found safe in sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide which are mineral based. The FDA classified these sunscreens as safe and effective. It is NOT recommended to use these sunscreens in the powdered/spray form. My favorite mineral based sunscreen is CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Based Sunscreen. While it does sometimes make me look like a chalky white human being when I initially apply it, I do feel safer knowing the chemical makeup is considered safe and effective. Whatever sunblock you choose to apply, it is important to be well informed regarding what we are applying to our bodies.

NJ Teachers Want COVID Vaccine; Gov. Murphy Has Possible Timeline

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:09:05 GMT

NJ Teachers Want COVID Vaccine; Gov. Murphy Has Possible Timeline

NJ schools have stepped up their demands to get teachers vaccinated against COVID-19. Gov. Murphy, in turn, has offered a possible timeline.

Click Here to read the full article.

Emergency vs. urgent care: What's the difference?

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:08:01 GMT

Emergency vs. urgent care: What's the difference?

It's Saturday morning and your child fell while playing in the backyard. He can't put any weight on his rapidly swelling ankle, and he is sweating and crying in pain. Should you head to the Emergency Department or Urgent Care?

Read the full article here .

Understanding Stress and Practicing Mindfulness By Megan McBurnie, MSN, AGNP-C

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:06:57 GMT

Understanding Stress and Practicing Mindfulness

By Megan McBurnie, MSN, AGNP-C

Everyone feels stressed from time to time. In response to stressful situations, your body releases hormones and chemicals that prepare you for action. Your heart rate quickens, you breathe faster and your blood sugar rises to give you energy - your body shifts into overdrive. The problem arises when these stressful, high-alert, situations last for a long time, rather than minutes or hours. Chronic stress has been shown to cause higher levels of inflammation and is linked to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, arthritis, digestive disorders, insomnia, memory loss, and overall functional decline.

Because most stressors aren't things you can't get rid of (e.g. work, family, finances), it's important to learn healthy ways to cope and build your resilience. As a society, we tend to place a lot of value on how much we can do and how fast we can do it. It's important to remember - you are a human being - not a "human-doing"! Allowing yourself time for exercise, socialization with friends and family, and sleep is vital to building resilience and combatting stress. Seeing a counselor or a therapist can also be helpful in identifying the sources of your stress and learning new coping tools.

Beyond these recommendations, studies have also shown that practicing mindfulness can effectively relieve stress. Being more mindful is within anyone's reach. You can practice mindfulness throughout the day even while answering emails, sitting in traffic, and waiting in line. Mindfulness practice can be as simple as bringing attention to your breath and feeling your feet on the ground as you sit at your desk or taking the time to listen to your body as you enjoy your food at lunch. Mindfulness is a simple concept and is an effective tool that anybody can use to reduce stress.

Upper Respiratory Infection and When to Give Antibiotics By Phil Davidson, MS, PA-C

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 14:05:36 GMT

Upper Respiratory Infection and When to Give Antibiotics

By Phil Davidson, MS, PA-C

Acute Upper Respiratory Infections, or URI's, are one of the most common complaints presenting to the urgent care. Runny nose, nasal congestion, scratchy throat, chest congestion, mild cough, and headache are some of the most common symptoms associated with URIs. They occur all year round, but they are much more prevalent during the fall and winter months. They are usually viral and don't require any antibiotics. URIs don't typically require any testing in the urgent care setting. They are a clinical diagnosis. Sometimes a respiratory panel and/or chest x-ray can be ordered if complaints such as wheezing, trouble breathing, or fevers are reported. Treatment is usually confined to OTC medications and fluids. Typically, URI's will resolve in less than 7 days. Despite this, URI's are one of the most common diagnoses where antibiotics are overprescribed for a variety of reasons. It is important to educate patients on symptoms of URI that may require antibiotics. These symptoms include persistent fevers, symptoms lasting for more than 10 days, and a combination of facial pain usually unilateral on palpation with symptoms lasting 5-7 days. Unless one or more of these presentations are occurring, antibiotics are usually not indicated. The takeaway from URI treatment is that antibiotics are seldom warranted. We need to continue to educate patients about antibiotic resistance when it comes to over treatment of common viral infections. If patients are insistent that they need more than just OTC medications for their infection, watch and wait antibiotic prescriptions can be written and can be an effective alternative. However, every patient is different and it's important to treat on a case-by-case basis.

Why Is It Better To Go To Urgent Care And Not The Hospital?

Wed, 07 Oct 2020 14:11:40 GMT

Why Is It Better To Go To Urgent Care And Not The Hospital?

What’s the difference between urgent care and the hospital? And, why should you opt for urgent care?

An urgent care unit is not just the more convenient option, it’s also much cheaper to visit. If you require immediate attention, but you’re not facing a life-threatening injury or illness, then you should always choose an urgent care center. Going to your local urgent care center to treat a sprain is going to save you time and money.

When To Choose Urgent Care

An urgent care center is an ideal choice if you are experiencing a medical problem outside of normal hours or a non-emergency illness/injury.

Just to give you an example of what issues you can visit an urgent care center to deal with, they include:

Back pain
Minor fractures
Minor headaches
X-rays
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Fever (unless it’s an infant under 3 months old)
Sinus pain
Ear pain
Abrasions, bumps, cuts, and scrapes
Flu vaccinations
Animal bites
Sore throat
Cough
Sprains
Strains
Mild asthma
Stitches
Minor burns
Rashes
Eye pain, swelling, or irritation
Painful urination
Cold symptoms
Flu symptoms
Minor allergic reactions

Your immediate response to the list above may be that the emergency room or hospital can also deal with any of these issues. While that’s true, there are other considerations. Firstly, you are likely to be seen much quicker at an urgent care center than you are in a hospital or emergency room. The vast majority of patients are in, treated, and out in an hour. Additionally, it is far cheaper to visit urgent care than it is to visit the emergency room. The majority of urgent care units accept a variety of insurance providers as well as a self pay option.

When To Choose A Hospital

If you are in an emergency, then obviously your best course of action is to go to the hospital’s emergency room. What constitutes a life-threatening emergency?

Difficulty breathing
Loss of vision
Chest pain
Signs and symptoms of a stroke
Head trauma
Signs and symptoms of a heart attack
Severe bleeding

The difference between an urgent care center and an emergency room situation is the severity of the issue. If you are dealing with a life-threatening illness or injury, then you should always head directly to the hospital’s emergency room. If your illness, injury, or condition is is minor or mild, then you should always opt for the affordability and convenience of an urgent care center.

Urgent Care

Urgent care clinics are typically run by at least one physician, who is supported by a variety of medical professionals from nurses, technicians, and physician’s assistants. Often, they are owned by hospitals or doctors, but they operate separately from emergency rooms and hospitals.

Always check to ensure the location you plan to visit accepts your health insurance. If they do not accept your insurance you will have to pay out-of-pocket for any treatment you receive. There is another factor to consider – the cost of visiting urgent care is cheaper, but it may not count to your annual deductible. This is key – as if you are uninsured, traveling outside your network, or need to be seen immediately, then urgent care is the perfect solution. It can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars.

According to a Texas study , the average cost of visiting a hospital’s emergency room is $1,842, but the average cost of visiting an urgent care center is just $168. That’s a whopping 10 times the difference.

Ultimately, it is far cheaper to visit an urgent care center than it is to visit a hospital. There are additional benefits, of course, with urgent care centers open weekends and evenings when physician’s offices are not. The wait time is also an important factor, with many people unable to leave work for long periods to deal with medical issues. Generally, the emergency room is our immediate response to a medical issue, but this is only driving the cost of healthcare up.

So, the next time you find yourself dealing with a mild illness or injury instead of heading to the emergency room, instead steer your vehicle towards the nearest urgent care center.

Can Urgent Care Refuse To See You?

Wed, 30 Sep 2020 14:13:53 GMT

Can Urgent Care Refuse To See You?

You may have noticed that many urgent care centers have cropped up across the country in the last decade. You may have spotted them in freestanding locations, strip malls, or shopping plazas. Regardless, they have become a regular presence in American lives and have made it easier for many to receive the healthcare they so desperately need and deserve.

According to Statista , there were around 6,000 urgent care clinics across the United States in 2013. And, at last count in 2019, that number had risen sharply to over 9,500. This is only set to grow over the next decade and there are a variety of reasons people choose to visit an urgent care clinic. Generally speaking, the most common medical reasons are for muscle and joint strain and sprains, urinary tract infections, and upper respiratory issues such as coughs, congestion, cold, and flu.

The primary personal reasons why people often opt to visit an urgent care facility is due to the convenience of location and appointments, as well as the affordable costs.

Typically, visits to urgent care clinics are more common because people are often traveling and unable to visit their primary care physician.

An Overview of Urgent Care

While you may be aware of their existence, you might not have much experience with visiting urgent care clinics. They bridge the gap between emergency care and primary physicians. They offer care for minor urgent medical issues. They are widely accessible and affordable, which makes them a convenient choice. They got their start back in the 1990s at a time when over 70% of Americans did not have access to primary care physicians during weekends or in the evenings. The majority of urgent care centers do not require appointments and are generally open seven days a week until late.

There is one major differences between an urgent care clinic and a hospital.

They don’t have all of the medical equipment necessary to deal with life-threatening emergencies.

They do have lab equipment for testing, x-ray machines, the facilities necessary to carry out flu shots, and can set broken bones. They accept a wide variety of insurance providers and the cost is far lower than visiting an emergency room or hospital.

Do I Need Insurance?

You do not need to have insurance to visit an urgent care facility. However, they may turn you away if you cannot afford to pay. That being said, many offer payment plans to make treatment easier to obtain. Typically, you’re looking at an out-of-pocket expense of around $150 if you do not carry insurance coverage, though that will depend on what treatment you are seeking. The cost of your visit will depend on why you are there and what type of treatment you receive during your visit. A lot of centers have a list of prices posted so that you have a good idea in advance at the type of cost you will be facing.

Can An Urgent Care Facility Refuse Me Service?

For the most part, you have the right to medical care which includes visiting an urgent care facility. However, there are some reasons which allow an urgent care center to refuse you service.

If you are under 18 and without a parent or guardian, they can refuse to treat you.

Likewise, if you are enrolled in an NJ Family Care Program or Medicaid, you will likely be unable to seek treatment at an urgent care clinic unless your insurance coverage is accepted by that clinic.

They may be able to refuse you service if you owe them for prior treatment and have made no effort to settle your bill.

It’s always best to know what your insurance covers before you visit any medical facility. Moreover, there are freestanding hospital emergency rooms disguised as urgent care centers. Be sure to ask before treatment. Your medical care is very much in your hands, and as a patient, it is up to you to inform yourself of your options. Knowing your rights and being aware of what you’re entitled to will ensure you save time and money in terms of the medical care you receive.

Do Urgent Cares Run Urine and Blood Tests?

Wed, 23 Sep 2020 14:15:19 GMT

Do Urgent Cares Run Urine and Blood Tests?

Urine and blood tests entail a very tedious and daunting endeavor. This is because they are expensive and time-consuming. Most people do not know whether urgent cares run these tests. There is minimal information out there regarding the same and this article will discuss whether urgent care centers run urine and blood tests.

The simple answer to this question is that urgent care centers do run urine and blood tests at the patient’s convenience. These centers have proposed to eliminate the strain that has been often associated with these lab tests. A quick trip to an urgent care center is now enough as you will be guaranteed that there will be some decent professional testing without the hassle that you have been normally accustomed to.

Urgent care centers now have an in house laboratory, which ensures there is quick testing with immediate results. This is vital as it ensures proper diagnosis and effective treatment without any wastage of time. This wastage has always been attributed to referral to other laboratories for testing. Urgent care centers now have laboratories that are very modern and properly equipped. They also staff well-qualified technicians who are capable of conducting various tests. This not only includes urine and blood tests but also x-rays, EKGs, influenza and strep throat among others.

Are Urgent Cares Convenient for Running Urine and Blood Tests?

It is now clear why in the past few years, many people have been preferring urgent care centers for urine and blood tests among others as they offer quick services thus rendering them convenient. They are faster than ordinary hospitals as they operate based on the cannon of a first come first serve basis. This implies that there has been a massive inclination towards onsite laboratories at these care centers.

The Cost of Doing a Urine or Blood Test at an Urgent Care Center

Besides conducting these urine and blood tests, urgent care centers also do them at subsidized rates compared to the constantly escalating costs in traditional hospital labs. The cost of these tests in the urgent care center is just a tiny bit compared to the exorbitant amounts normally charged in an emergency room.

These care centers have properly trained and qualified professionals. They are more than capable of taking samples and effectively conducting these tests. Despite this, a huge misconception exists suggesting that getting a blood or urine test at an urgent care center means that you are compromising on quality but this is merely contradictory. This is because with the advancement of these urgent care centers, they not only perform urine and blood tests but also have other experts, physicians, and specialists who offer the required treatment after obtaining your test results. This has therefore debunked this myth, as it is clear that urgent cares are more than capable of doing these tests. They also follow up and provide the necessary treatment as previously mentioned.

It is prudent to say that the majority of urgent care centers conduct urine and blood tests. However, not all of them have these capabilities hence you should first check, confirm or verify from their website and any other social media profiles, which can reliably inform you whether they conduct these urine and blood tests or not.

Should I Go To An Urgent Care After I Fell On My Tailbone?

Fri, 21 Aug 2020 14:17:30 GMT

Should I Go To An Urgent Care After I Fell On My Tailbone?

Also referred to as coccyx, tailbone is the bone located at the rare end of the spine. It is possible to injure your tailbone during a direct blow or a seated fall. Although the area around your tailbone may be bruised, there are times when it can fracture causing extreme or unbearable pain. A fractured tailbone can be very painful and may take a very long time to heal.

If you are experiencing unexplained discomfort around the coccyx or you have signs and symptoms of an injury, you may be wondering what steps you can take to address the issue. This article discusses whether it is necessary to go to an urgent care center if you fell on your tailbone.

The Severity of a Tailbone Injury

Most injuries around the coccyx area lead to bruising and pain. It is only in rare cases that you may encounter a broken or fractured bone. Falling backward onto a hard surface such as ice or a slippery floor is one of the common causes of tailbone injuries. Some of the symptoms of injury may include pain in the lower back, numbness with sitting and swelling around the base of the spine.

Is Visiting Urgent Care Necessary?

An urgent care center is meant to treat patients with non-emergency but pressing medical issues. Patients can seek medical treatment outside the regular doctor’s office hours. Tailbone injuries rarely require a visit to an urgent care center because they can be treated at home. However, if you are experiencing unexplained discomfort or extreme pain that does not seem to fade away then it might be necessary to visit urgent care.

If you have fallen accidentally on your back, consider doing a self-assessment before you quickly get up. Although most bruises and bumps on your tailbone do not require medical attention, extreme signs and symptoms such as strains, sprains, and fractures need to be treated at certified urgent care. Some of the reasons to visit urgent care are when you are unable to move an upper extremity without feeling pain or your pain persists for a very long time despite self-care and treatment at home.

What to Expect When Visiting an Urgent Care

A healthcare provider will do a thorough examination of your tailbone region. They conduct the diagnosis by pressing on the area gently and other series of physical tests to determine the severity of your condition. An X-ray may be performed on your lower back to assess the extent of the injury. If there is no sign of fracture, you will be given medicine to alleviate your symptoms. Since it is quite difficult to hold together a fractured tailbone, the treatment focuses on easing discomfort while the injury continues to heal. Icing your injury for a day or two can help relieve pain and swelling. Your physician may recommend a special pillow or cushion to protect your tailbone when sitting or sleeping. If you do not respond well to the above treatments, then your doctor may recommend surgery for a traumatic coccyx injury.

Can I Treat My Symptoms at Home?

Your health care provider will provide instructions on how to relieve your symptoms from home. It is important to follow these steps for the first few days or weeks following your injury. Try to rest and stop any physical activities that might cause pain because your body heals faster the more you rest. While awake, ice your tailbone for 20 minutes every hour for the first 2 days then do it two to three times a day. Use a special cushion recommended by your physician to take the pressure off your tailbone. It is important to avoid sitting a lot as it exerts a lot of pressure on your coccyx region.

The best resting position is to lie on your belly or according to your doctor’s recommendation. Talk with your healthcare provider before you use any non-prescription drugs for pain. Some of these drugs can have negative side effects if you have an underlying health condition such as heart disease, stomach ulcers, or high blood pressure. Most importantly, never take more drugs than what is recommended by your physician.

You can begin light physical activity such as sitting or walking as your pain goes away. Try to avoid sitting for long periods especially on a hard surface, and use your special cushion to ease tension on your lower back. It is important to follow up with your health care provider to assess your healing progress and incorporate new lifestyle changes that take the pressure off your tailbone.

Can I Go To An Urgent Care For Anti-Depressants?

Fri, 14 Aug 2020 14:19:10 GMT

Can I Go To An Urgent Care For Anti-Depressants?

Depression has become a major issue nowadays. It entails stress that could be caused by work exertions, pressure from media outlets, and other factors that you cannot simply pinpoint or determine the root cause. Many people are resorting to anti-depressants as the perfect remedy for this unique condition.

This medication cannot be purchased over the counter hence many people are not sure of how they can obtain them. It is very important for you to be fully aware of these distinctions for clarity and to avoid any kinds of incorrect assumptions or misunderstandings. This article discusses if it is possible to acquire antidepressants from urgent care centers.

Can Antidepressants Be Prescribed At An Urgent Care Facility?

It is in the nature of urgent care facilities to prescribe medication occasionally. Unfortunately, urgent care doctors cannot observe, take care of, or even monitor patients for an extended period. This implies that antidepressants cannot be prescribed at these centers. However, there is an exception where the urgent care doctors can decide to prescribe a short term or limited dose of antidepressants for patients who are taking this kind of medication under the care and prescription of another physician.

Just to highlight, there are other few classes of medication which cannot be prescribed by urgent care doctors such as birth control pills, long-term medication for chronic illnesses and drugs used for the management of long term pain.

Why are Antidepressants Not Provided at Urgent Care Clinics?

Antidepressants are not offered at urgent care clinics because some medication requires a lot of follow up and proper monitoring, which cannot be possible at an urgent care clinic hence necessitating a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist. Anti-depressants can therefore not be prescribed at urgent care centers as they are properly equipped to adequately provide this kind of care.

Which Prescription Can Be Made By An Urgent Care Doctor?

There is specific medication that can be prescribed at an urgent care facility. This includes antibiotics that are used for the treatment of bacterial infections. Emergency limited doses are also prescribed for patients who have hypertension or diabetes. This is simply referred to as maintenance medication. However, this only relates to a single dose and not a complete refill. Your usual doctor is the only one that can prescribe a refill. More so, urgent care doctors can also prescribe eye drops for the treatment of eye infections and medication for stomach issues such as food poisoning, diarrhea, and constipation. Short-term prescriptions are also made for the relief of minor or less severe pain emanating from spasms and inflammation. Urgent care facilities can prescribe these types of medication but are still barred from prescribing anti-depressants and narcotics as mentioned above. This is done to ensure that your health and safety is paramount.

What is Advisable for People Suffering from Depression?

It is therefore advisable for you to consult a qualified and experienced specialist. This could be a psychologist or a psychiatrist who is well positioned to aid you to know the most fitting medication for your depression. This will help you revert to a better and reduced state of depression.

As seen in this article, not all medications can be prescribed at all medical facilities. To elucidate further, they are not all similar or uniform. You might find that some kinds of medication may be prescribed at some facilities and not in others. As illustrated above, antidepressants are not provided at urgent care centers. Even if the primary goal of urgent care clinics is to ensure that the patients receive proper and utmost care by treating them accordingly, they cannot prescribe anti-depressants. Therefore, they refer you to a primary care physician who can assess and monitor you accordingly. This is because they will be able to diagnose your afflictions and remedy them accordingly by giving you the requisite treatment. It is meant to ensure that you get a permanent solution for your condition before it spirals out of control. In conclusion, you cannot visit an urgent care facility with the view or hope of obtaining antidepressants.

Is It Possible To Get My Medication Filled By Going to Urgent Care?

Sat, 08 Aug 2020 14:20:49 GMT

Is It Possible To Get My Medication Filled By Going to Urgent Care?

Just like the name suggests, urgent care centers are places to get medical help that is of urgency and cannot wait until you get to the hospital. Among the many medical services you can get at urgent care services include wound dressing, first aid, lab services and prescriptions for various medical conditions. Depending on the doctor’s qualifications and license, the type of medication and treatment you can get varies from one urgent care center to another. You can never know until you set your foot in an urgent care center and find out for yourself. However, in normal circumstances, these medications are more likely to be filled for you at an urgent care center.

Short Term Pain Management Drugs

Most people experience one type of pain daily so it is very common to see people rushing to urgent care centers for pain management drugs. Such drugs are used to treat short-term pains like backaches, headaches, muscle pain, and so on. However, for long-term pain management you will not get them filled at urgent care centers because their use could result in becoming an addiction. In that case, the doctor who has been administering them might be said to have abetting drug abuse and they may lose their license. For such pains, you should visit a hospital for further examination. Besides, you do not want to put your health at risk.

Antivirals

Antivirals are drugs used for treating or preventing contagious diseases and conditions like flu. Since some of these conditions are highly contagious and deadly if not vaccinated against early enough, the prescription is treated with utmost urgency. For this reason, it can be filled at urgent care because by the time the patient gets to a hospital, they may have already contracted, spread, or suffered serious effects of the disease. It is important that although you can get the antiviral filled at urgent care, it is just up to a few doses and then you can get the rest from a hospital.

Antibiotics

In our daily undertakings, we always come across things and situations that leave us with bruises and wounds. When the bleeding is very severe, getting to a hospital might not be an option because you might bleed to death even before you get there. This is where urgent care centers come in; the performance of urgent dressing of such wounds to stop bleeding. At that instance, the doctor should give you some antibiotics to prevent any chances of the wound being infected.

Allergies and Asthma Medication

Allergies and asthmatic attacks are circumstances that no one can see coming. They can happen without the patient getting any prior sign or warning. When this happens, urgent care must be administered otherwise the patient may experience serious side effects, at which time, death is imminent. This is not the time to rush up and down looking for or trying to ask the already unconscious patient where their inhaler could be. Instead, you rush them to an urgent care center where they are given antihistamines and an inhaler to last them to the hospital.

One Time Maintenance Drugs

Due to various circumstances like being busy with work, one-time maintenance drugs such as blood pressure or diabetes drugs can always run out without you being aware of it. Since urgent care centers are all over the town, you can always rush to one and get some to last you the moment before you visit your doctor at the hospital. One-time drugs for managing conditions such as high blood pressure have to be administered.

Prescription Refills

If you are on medication for various illnesses and the prescription happens to run out at night or if your primary physician is far, you can get the refill from an urgent care center. You could call your primary physician to allow you to get the prescription refill instead of you traveling to them. However, most of these prescription refills are only meant for a limited number of illnesses during emergencies.

As seen, it is very possible to get your medication filled by going to urgent care. However, medical services and medication offered at urgent care centers should not be construed as the ultimate solution to your problems. Instead, they should be used as first aid, after which further examination and help should be sought after in hospitals. Most urgent care centers accept insurance from different companies but it is always wise to first confirm with them to avoid any surprises.

COVID 19 Related Discrimination and Stigma

Fri, 31 Jul 2020 14:22:31 GMT

COVID 19 Related Discrimination and Stigma

The world is battling the COVID-19 crisis, caused by the coronavirus. The disease has affected our normal ways of living in so many ways. In a bid to flatten the curve of infections through social distancing, we are no longer able or are not allowed to move freely.

People have also lost jobs while others have been forced to work from home. The worst of them all is the discrimination that has been subjected to COVID-19 patients, even after recovering from the disease. This article sheds light on some of the many ways people with COVID-19 are been discriminated against and what can be done to stop the stigma.

Name-Calling

Due to the seriousness of the COVID-19 disease, people who have contracted the disease have been called names and labeled against. Most unfortunately, even the media and healthcare workers have also used some sensitive names. These names include; COVID-19 cases, COVID-19 patients, COVID-19 survivors among many others. What so many people may not know is that such names contribute to singling out such people from the rest of the community. It is unfair to refer to these people with such names because they are trying their best to bury the trauma they are or underwent with the disease. Instead of such names, refer to those infected or survived as just patients without attaching the name COVID-19 to it.

Spreading Misinformation About COVID-19 Patients

Another form of discrimination that causes stigma related to COVID-19 is spreading misinformation about the disease. Misinformation and fake news about COVID-19 only increases fear and panic among the public. This is fear and panic dehumanizes the disease, causing people to look at infected people as aliens. Since much of the information comes especially from social media, stop watching too much news and reduce your screen time.

Stereotyping

Many are the times, due to misinformation and fakes news people have stereotyped others, especially those exhibiting signs and symptoms of COVID-19. Although it is recommended to remain vigilant of people with such signs and symptoms, it is wrong to conclude that such people are indeed suffering from the disease. Stereotyping in this case means assuming that someone else is infected just by looking at them. It also means assuming that certain people are the only ones who can be infected, and not anyone else.

Alleviation

Being avoided by people in society is a bad thing, but being segregated by the very people who ought to take care of you is a different story. Most people mistake the need for social distancing with total alienation. People who do that to patients who are or have battled COVID-19 are disillusioned that they are themselves going to be infected just out of relating with such people. Associating with people suffering from the disease cannot make you infected as long as you maintain social distance and the other preventive measures like disinfecting the surfaces they encounter. The much you can do for people exhibiting signs and symptoms of COVID-19 is to call for medical help for them and wait for test results.

Physical Abuse

The worst thing that can happen to people battling or have recovered from COVID-19 is physical and sexual abuse. The requirement for self-isolation should not be an opportunity for other members of the community to abuse such people physically or sexually. On the contrary, it should be the best moment to give them hope and courage to face the pandemic even better and stronger.

Although deadly, COVID-19 is just a normal disease like any other, and people have and continue to recover from it. Provided such people maintain and adhere to the rules laid down by the CDC and the WHO, they should not be discriminated against or stigmatized. This will help us combat this disease and get back to normal a lot faster.

The Effect of COVID-19 on the Quality of Life of Young People

Thu, 23 Jul 2020 14:24:20 GMT

The Effect of COVID-19 on the Quality of Life of Young People

COVID-19 is an unprecedented global crisis that is affecting people in different spheres of life. In a bid to flatten the infections curve, most governments all over the world, have curtailed the usual movement of people. The majority of the working class has also been forced to work from home. A good number of business companies have been forced to lay off workers but in the middle of all this, the youth are the most affected since they are the most active group in the society. This article looks at the effects of COVID-19 on the quality of life of young people.

Risk of Sexual Crimes

With most people being at home and a good number having lost their jobs, this has created a loophole for sexual crimes and exploitation.

Sexual predators like pedophilia see this as a chance to waylay their victims since they are with the youth for most of the day. At the same time, the ill-mannered youths take the lockdown as an opportunity to experiment with sex. Unfortunately, due to loss of jobs and a cut off in source of income, some youths, especially from the less unfortunate families engage in sex work as a way to raise money to meet their basic needs.

Mental and Physical Concerns

Normally, young people are not accustomed to being indoors. They are usually at school, social gatherings, parties, or any other outdoor activities. With nobody knowing what will become of their future, young people have as a result become anxious, stressed, and even depressed. The bad news is that they have no one to turn to since most churches, schools, and support groups are closed. The best thing to help your kid deal with their mental anguish is to encourage them to talk it out.

Risk of Engaging in Social Vises

Having very little to do and nowhere to go during the pandemic has presented the society with all sorts of challenges. Some young people have taken the opportunity of the lockdown to experiment with different social ills such as drugs and substance abuse, cybercrimes, and pornography. This is because the lockdown has made it easier for youths to engage in such negative activities.

Challenging Family Relationships

With most people having lost their jobs and cut off sources of income, domestic violence cases have increased due to work-related stress and frustrations. When family wrangles occur children get caught up in the middle and are the ones most affected because they tend to blame themselves for their parents’ separation and divorce. To avoid this scenario and protect children from this torment, parents are advised to try as much as possible to keep their wrangles away from their children.

Increased Pressure From Social Media

Being indoors for the better part of the day has left young people with so much time at their disposal. As a result, screen time amongst young people has drastically increased. Since the internet is full of fake stories and people who want to lead a certain life they cannot afford, sometimes the pressure is too much for some youths to bear. Because of trying to compare or matching that kind of life, some youths have been left much stressed. The pressure from social media has also resulted in fear and anxiety amongst young people due to the tons of fake news that circulate there.

Technological Innovations

The effects of COVID-19 on young people are not only negative; some good things have also come out of it. The youth, being very creative and with all the time at their disposal, have discovered new ways of doing things. For example, we have seen some of them inventing new models of ventilators that have helped thousands of lives during the pandemic. Other young people are now creating content and earning hefty money from YouTube channels.

Numerous legislatures have approached the youth to grasp the push to ensure safety for themselves and the general populace. Youths are additionally in a situation to help the generally powerless individuals, and to help in expanding general wellbeing and social mindfulness battles among their networks. Subsequently, youth are basic to restricting the infection’s spread and its effect on general wellbeing, society, and the economy at large. The COVID-19 pandemic has really affected young people in the aforementioned ways. However, there is still some hope, as some young people are utilizing this time to work on the talents and different abilities. Instead of engaging in negative things, young people should take this as an opportunity to work on themselves and their goals in life.

How to Manage COVID-19 Symptoms At Home

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:26:52 GMT

How to Manage COVID-19 Symptoms At Home

COVID-19 continues to be a major health crisis that is really testing the healthcare system. Due to this reason, it is important to have a good understanding of different self-care tips that you can utilize to manage COVID-19 symptoms at home. The reasoning behind this is that most people infected with COVID-19 experience mild symptoms that can be easily treated at home. This article gives information on different things you can do if you are experiencing some telltale signs of the virus.

COVID-19 Symptoms

Before we look at how to deal with different COVID-19 symptoms, it is important to have a good understanding of these distinct signs so you can know what you are dealing with. Symptoms linked to COVID-19 include fatigue, fever, shortness of breath, sore throat, aches and pains, and continuous cough. If you have these symptoms, you should consider self-isolating immediately.

Dealing With COVID-19 Symptoms at Home

Similar to other viruses like flu and colds, managing your COVID-19 symptoms is an important part to your recovery. Some simple things you should do include drinking lots of water, eating well, getting plenty or rest and using over-the-counter medicines to reduce your symptoms. Let us have a look at these actions in detail:

Get Enough Rest

It is crucial for you to reduce activities while undergoing home-based care. This will help your body to fight off the symptoms and help you recover. You should avoid doing many chores or intense exercise.

Eat Well

Proper nutrition matters a lot when it comes to coping with COVID-19 symptoms. Depending on your health situation, you might not feel like eating. However, try as much as you can to get enough food. Also, ensure that you are taking plenty of vegetables and fruits to boost your immune system.

Monitor Your Symptoms Daily

You need to monitor your symptoms every single day to ensure that your situation is improving and not getting worse. Check for worsening fevers, increased muscle and headaches, or new developing symptoms.

Be on the Lookout for Breathing Difficulties

Severe COVID-19 causes breathing issues. Therefore, be sure to be on the lookout for this symptom. In case you have issues breathing, you will want to reach out to a medical facility for assistance as soon as possible.

Be In Touch With Your Doctor

If you are doing self-care for COVID-19 at home, you will want to be in touch with your doctor. Doing this makes sure that you are getting regular advice on how to deal with the symptoms depending on your current condition.

Medications to Reduce COVID-19 Symptoms

Currently, COVID-19 does not have a cure. Therefore, your goal should be to manage the symptoms until you have fully recovered. If your symptoms are mild, you can easily minimize them using over-the-counter drugs. This is possible because most people have an asymptomatic or mild infection that can be easily dealt with.

For viral infections like common cold and flu, some painkillers such as NSAIDs and paracetamol are widely recommended to manage the symptoms. Despite this, some studies claim that the use of NSAIDs can increase the risk of severe COVID-19 complications. Although this is still under investigation, you might want to steer away from using NSAIDs unless you were using them for other reasons. In case your symptoms get worse after using NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, then consider reaching out to medical experts for assistance.

Things You Should Know About Coping with COVID-19 Symptoms at Home

As you have seen, it is possible to deal with mild COVID-19 symptoms at home. However, it is quite hard to deal with serious symptoms. Therefore, if you continue feeling unwell or your condition gets worse, you should consider seeking medical help. This is because getting to this point means that you cannot be able to cope with the symptoms alone at home. Hence, it would be better if you allowed medical experts to help you out.

With COVID-19 cases rising every day, home-based healthcare for those with mild symptoms seems to be the best move to try and decongest the overwhelmed healthcare system. Given that most patients have mild symptoms, the likelihood of successful treatment at home is quite high. To manage COVID-19 symptoms, it is important to have a good understanding of your symptoms and be confident that your health will not deteriorate with time. By having this comprehension, you can be in a better position to deal with the symptoms until you attain full

Are Young People Susceptible to Get COVID-19?

Thu, 09 Jul 2020 14:28:41 GMT

Are Young People Susceptible to Get COVID-19?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the younger generation is at risk of getting ill from COVID-19 than previously thought. Public health experts say young people should be wary about the disease, just like the older generations. Based on the analyzed data and ongoing research about the trends of the virus, it is still not clear about other possible risk factors that may affect young people in addition to age.

Although the likelihood of being hospitalized from COVID-19 is significantly higher in the older age group, new data from top health agencies shows that younger people can be susceptible to the virus as well. This article assesses factors that may contribute to COVID-19 infections in young people and its implications.

New Data about Covid-19 Infections

Looking at the new data released by the CDC and other top health organizations, you may think that something has changed from the beginning the infection rates were only high among people above the age of 60. The early data about COVID-19 infection and deaths found the cases higher among the older population as it is today. Now that we are receiving broad data on general infections and serious fatalities, it is becoming clear that children and young adults are also susceptible to COVID-19 despite their lower rates of infection.

The chances of a young person with no underlying health conditions succumbing to the deadly virus are rare but the primary question is, can it happen? While many people may argue that only young people with underlying health conditions can be affected by COVID-19, it is still possible for young healthy individuals to get the virus.

How Are Young Healthy Adults Susceptible to COVID-19?

Genetic Makeup

One theory is that some young people have a genetic makeup that makes them likely to respond differently to COVID-19. It is also suspected that there may be a specific gene that can alter the respiratory receptors and as a result, making it easier for the virus to infect the lungs of some people. This can be true for individuals whose health conditions run through their family history.

Viral Load

Viral load refers to the actual amount of virus particles that infect a person. Since young individuals have a strong immunity compared to older people, they may be in a better position to recover from smaller loads of the virus. However, it is believed that with higher doses, the outcome may be worse. Since the virus is always at work, making copies of itself inside your body, the disease may progress quickly.

Less Compliance

Age-related differences in risk-taking might play a significant role in shaping COVID-19 trends among young people. It may be fair to say that young people can be less compliant with interventions like quarantine, social distancing, and using masks in public spaces, as they are eager to go back to how things were before. These differences in risk aversion can also contribute to the number of COVID-19 infection rates among young people with time.

Increased Burden on Hospitals

According to hospitalization rates shown by top health organizations like the CDC, older adults record the highest number of ICU admission and case fatalities. A small increase in hospitalizations among younger adults could create a significant burden in municipalities with intensive care units already exceeding capacity. If the available health centers cannot meet the health needs of the community, then the curves may continue rising among the young generation due to inadequate medical facilities.

The Implication of COVID-19 on Young People

While young people can get the virus, there are rare cases for fatalities among the individuals aged below 19. One explanation is that as we age, our immune system slows down adding it to the fact that older people have a higher likelihood of other chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease. For kids, their immune systems are still stronger and underdeveloped in some ways making them less susceptible to other diseases. However, they can still be affected by COVID-19 due to the possible factors as discussed earlier.

It is important to keep in mind that the above information is only meant to help you understand why young people can also be affected by COVID-19. Even though many young adults may show mild symptoms or no symptoms, it does not make them invisible, as they can be carriers who pass the virus to older populations that are at high risk. It is essential to take necessary precautions during this pandemic to avoid a further increase in the number of COVID-19 infection cases among young people.

How to Cope With Having to Do Little or No Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Tue, 30 Jun 2020 14:30:24 GMT

How to Cope With Having to Do Little or No Work during the COVID-19 Pandemic

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease caused by the Coronavirus, which is spread when an uninfected person inhales droplets of saliva from an infected person. COVID-19 is a disease that has killed thousands of people globally. For this reason, the government has put under lockdown most parts of the country while limiting movements in some areas.

This is in a bid to keep social distance and try to flatten the curve of new infections. As a result, most people, except the healthcare workers have been forced to remain indoors and work from home. With so much free time at their disposal, most people are now bored to a point where their mental health is at risk. This article shows you how to cope with having little or nothing to do during these trying times and at least maintain your sanity.

Do Physical Workouts

The fact that you have so much time at your disposal means it is the best time to work out, unlike before when you hardly had enough time for yourself. Physical workout is the best way to kill time because apart from keeping you busy, it makes you healthy. During physical exercise, our bodies replace the stress hormone, cortisol with the feel-good hormone, serotonin. This leaves you feeling more relaxed and happier, improving the quality of your life. At the same time, physical exercises help keep your weight healthy and safe from obesity-related conditions like cardiac arrest.

Play Indoor Games

Your movement may have been cut off but that does not mean that you can no longer have fun. Your backyard or your front lawn is a good place to play outdoor games with your family and pets. For example, you could play football, throw some freebies, or play hide and seek. If you live in an apartment where there is no playground, you could engage in indoor games like chess and scrabble. This helps shake your mind up a little and take you away from the current situation of the pandemic.

Engage in Hobbies

Another great way of passing time and avoiding being bored during the COVID-19 pandemic is by engaging in your hobbies. You could for example make some paper crafts, mold some items, or even draw things. The best thing about hobbies is that sometimes they end up being some good sources of extra income.

Deep Clean the House

The quarantine during the pandemic is also a great opportunity to give your house a facelift through deep cleaning. It could be that you were extremely busy before the COVID-19 and you hardly had time to deep clean your house. Now is the best time to shake things up and reach all the corners of your house. As you do that, do not forget your garden as well as the yard. Trim the trees near your roof, weed the flowers, or replace the very old flowers with some new ones. Trim the grass and replenish your front steps. Instead of waiting for the junk company to collect your garbage, you could decide to dispose it of yourself by composing it in your backyard if your municipal authority allows it.

Try New Recipes

Since you have so much time to yourself, this could be a good opportunity to try new recipes. As you do that, ensure the recipes are all about healthy eating. Unhealthy eating can make you overweight, which can leave you battling obesity-related conditions. Healthy eating improves your metabolic rate for better digestion. It also enhances the circulation of blood throughout the body.

Start a Blog

Another fun thing to do when free during the pandemic is to write blogs. You could start with how the pandemic has changed your life not just negatively but also from a positive perspective. You could also make videos and post them on YouTube, telling people how to cope with different situations during the lockdown. The best thing about blogs and vlogs is that they also generate some extra income for you. There is no better way to keep earning especially if you have been laid off or fired at work.

No one, including the scientists, knows when the disease will be gone, with some projecting that the virus may be with us for longer. This, therefore, means that we should learn to live with the pandemic, and the sooner we learn the faster and easily we adapt to the new normal. Doing the aforementioned things will help you stay active and positive during these tough times.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Employment and What to Do To Reduce Stress

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 14:31:51 GMT

The Impact of COVID-19 on Employment and What to Do To Reduce Stress

The outbreak of COVID-19 has affected our lives in many ways. The government has imposed lockdown and cessation of movement in most parts of the country. As a result, most companies and businesses have closed down due to massive losses in profits. Many workers have been laid off while the lucky ones have been forced to work from home.

Since people associate jobs or sources of income with a sense of purpose and responsibility, the increasing rate of unemployment has resulted in mental agony amongst the affected individuals. One thing you should note, however, is that losing your job is not the end of life. You have to get yourself together and stay sane for the better days ahead. This article looks at things you can do to reduce stress because of unemployment during this pandemic.

Think of Other Ways of Making Money

Losing a job is not only financially tragic but it also affects your mental health. Even as bad as it may look and sound, it should not be the end. After accepting your current situation, you should start thinking of other ways to make a living. The internet is not just flooded with negative information, it also has some positive and transformative ideas. If you conduct your small research on the internet, especially YouTube, you will find so many ideas of what you can do to make money with so much less capital. For example, if you learned a certain DIY task, made a video of the process, and posted it on YouTube or other social media platforms, you may receive job requests or get paid for the watch hours by YouTube. Now that is a problem solved and less stress.

Learn New Hobbies

Hobbies work by taking the mind away from the stress-causing situation. However, distracting your mind from the stress does not mean that the stress is gone; it is still there. What you will be doing with the hobbies is reducing the amount of time and energy you spend thinking about the current jobless situation. The best thing about hobbies is that they might end up turning into money making ideas. Take for example learning the DIY waste paper and concrete lamps shade making. This is something that can make so much money for you since it is a unique idea.

Seek Counseling Services

The most appropriate and effective way of dealing with stress due to loss of work is by seeking professional mental health help. You may not afford it in your current financial situation but there are several hotlines you can call toll free. Most psychological counselors are now volunteering to offer free counseling services to people most affected by the effects of the pandemic. You do not even need to go to them physically, as most psychological counselors are now offering online sessions via the Zoom platform. However, if you can afford professional mental health help, please pay so that other less privileged people can make use of the free services.

Physical Workout

Among the many ways of dealing with stress is by engaging in physical exercise. As you work out, your body sweats and the heart beats faster. This makes the blood circulate better in your body, leaving you healthy. In the same process, exercise enhances the production of the feel-good hormone endorphin, while eliminating the stress hormone, cortisol. The ripple effect of physical workout is that you will be left feeling relaxed, calm, and happy, as the stress is eliminated. Be sure to combine your workout with positive thinking and healthy eating for the best possible results.

Avoid Fake News

Propagandists and fake news media have hijacked the COVID-19 crisis and are now spreading fake news. Fake news impacts on mental health by making people stressed, anxious, and very afraid of their future, safety, and wellbeing. You can reduce stress caused by fake news by choosing to consume less news and if you do, ensure you verify its source.

Is everything terrible news? While the momentary effect may not look encouraging, COVID-19 has introduced a few open doors for industry development that could convert into expanded open doors for work in the mid-long run. The only thing we can do for now is to keep doing what the health department advocates – staying positive and keeping safe. Doing this plus implementing the aforementioned tips will go a long way in helping you deal with the unemployment distress as a result of COVID-19.

What are the Psychological Effects of COVID-19 on Children?

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 14:33:25 GMT

What are the Psychological Effects of COVID-19 on Children?

Although children can be infected with COVID-19, they seem less susceptible to the virus and show milder symptoms compared to adults. However, they are much tuned into the stress and fear around them. Children can be affected both mentally and emotionally during this pandemic the fact that schools are closed, everyone is isolating themselves at home, and there is less interaction with other kids.

Such closures deprive children access to resources they usually have in schools and involvement in social activities that keep their mind occupied. This article looks at some of the psychological effects of COVID-19 on children and things to do about them.

Loss of Daily Structure

Although children may be concerned about their health or their parents’ health, they are also concerned with the fact that their routine is altered. Schools play a significant role in a child’s daily life since it is where they see their friends and learn new concepts in class. Since that structure went away overnight, it heightened their anxiety, as they are concerned about when they can go back to school and see their friends once again. Children with special needs such as ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) can become short-tempered and frustrated with their daily routines are disrupted. This can make it difficult for many children to adjust back to normal life once schools have reopened.

Restricted Access to Peers

After the announcement of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a disruption or limited access to basic services at the community level. Leisure time activities have been limited, as children are not allowed to use regular playgrounds, and sports clubs. Social group activities and relations have been prohibited to prevent the spread of the virus. Given the importance of peer contact for the overall well-being of children and adolescents, these measures can have a negative impact on their mental health. Feelings of loneliness and isolation can heighten their level of anxiety and depression are uncertain of what may unfold in the future.

Stigmatization of Infected Children and Families

Many children are understandably frightened and concerned about COVID-19 as it has claimed the lives of other children and families including their closest friends. Social stigma may interfere with how peers relate to one another once they resume their normal school routine. Affected children can be targets of emotional, verbal, and physical abuse. This can make them feel hurt, depressed, and angry when friends and other people avoid them for fear of getting infected with COVID-19. This form of stigmatization can interfere with their academic performance, self-esteem, and social interaction with other peers even if they survived the infection.

Fear of Losing Parents or Family Members

There is an increased fear of losing parents or family members who belong to a high-risk group. Children whose parents are working in medical facilities or isolated in COVID-19 treatment centers may be worried about losing them should they succumb to the virus. The normal bereavement processes of families have also been disrupted by the pandemic in case of death. For children who have lost their parents, guardians or family members could find it difficult to adjust to their normal lives. This could lead to depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and even suicide.

Neglect and Child Abuse

The COVID-19 pandemic has reorganized the everyday life in families. Just like other people, all family members have to cope with the stress of social distancing and quarantine. Parents have been forced to work from home and others have lost their primary sources of income. Most parents are now home spending the entire day with their kids. While this could seem a good idea at first, it could become disruptive for a while the fact schools acted as an important source of monitoring kids. Since parents are also filled with fear and anxiety about what is going on, they may neglect the needs of their children over time and others could fall victim to child abuse.

Academic institutions, pediatricians, and child support services play a significant role in the daily lives of children. Not only do they promote their health but they also protect them by detecting if they are at risk of being harmed. Parents should be supportive of their children’s needs during the COVID-19 pandemic. They should be able to help them understand why they cannot go to school or why they cannot see their friends. Most importantly, parents should listen to the concerns of their children and reassure them that all will be well.

Things To Do If You Are Diagnosed With COVID-19

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 15:01:35 GMT

Things To Do If You Are Diagnosed With COVID-19

If you have been diagnosed with COVID-19 and you are showing mild symptoms of the virus, your doctor may recommend you to recover at home. He or she will give you special instructions to help monitor your symptoms and reduce the risk of spreading the illness to other people. You may be required to stay in home isolation for some time except to get medical care. If you are very ill or your symptoms are worsening then you need to be treated in the hospital. This article discusses things to do if you are diagnosed with COVID-19.

Stay At Home Except to Get Medical Care

Most patients who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 can recover at home without medical care as long as they manifest mild symptoms of the virus.While at home, you need to stay hydrated and get enough rest. While it is also important to stay in touch with your doctor at all times, call first to give an update about your symptoms before scheduling a medical visit. Taking over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen can help you feel better. If you experience any difficulties in breathing or other concerning symptoms then you can always call 911 for immediate help.

Isolate Yourself From Other People

Covid-19 spreads through direct contact with infected persons or contaminated surfaces. Since you are aware of your condition, you must separate yourself from other people in your home including pets. Stay in a specific room and use a separate bathroom if possible. Family members who are not at higher risk can help run essential errands. It is better to communicate with them on the phone or other digital means to reduce any close contact when giving instructions. These measures are important as they prevent the illness from spreading to your family members or loved ones.

Check Your Symptoms and Report Information

During the isolation period, it is crucial to monitor your symptoms, which may include fever, cough, or breathing difficulties. Your healthcare provider and local health authorities may give you instructions on how to monitor your symptoms and report information to assess your progress. If you start experiencing breathing difficulties at any point, it is necessary to get immediate medical attention, as it is a serious symptom of COVID-19.

Wear a Cloth Covering Over Your Nose and Mouth

If you have to navigate around the house or other people, then wear a mask or cloth covering over your nose and mouth. It is not necessary to wear a cloth face covering if you are alone especially if you start experiencing breathing problems. Staying 6 feet away from other people helps to keep them safe from infection.

Clean and Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces in Your Room

Since COVID-19 can spread easily through contaminated surfaces, it is important to clean and disinfect places you touch often in your ‘isolation room’ and bathroom. Let other family members or people clean the other common areas around the house. If a caregiver needs to clean and disinfect your bedroom or bathroom, then they need to wear disposable gloves and a mask before cleaning. Ensure you have someone you trust to check on you daily to ensure you are doing okay.

Avoid Sharing Personal Items

Sharing personal items like cups, dishes, utensils, bedding, and towels can increase the chances of infecting other people who have not contracted the virus. It is important to wash these items immediately after using them with soap and water. You should also sanitize and clean your hands often for at least 20 seconds before eating or preparing food. If you do not have access to soap and water then consider using a hand sanitizer that has at least 60 percent alcohol content.

When to Seek Medical Help

If you are experiencing severe dizziness, difficulty breathing, or constant chest pains then you need to get immediate medical attention. Call your doctor if you are generally too sick to eat, use the toilet, or perform any basic personal care. Make sure you call your doctor before you leave your home to get medical care. Less serious visits are done over the phone and allows some time for health care professionals to discuss your situation and plan for your arrival.

It is important to discuss with your health professional about any underlying health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or lung disease. People with a compromised immune system are at high risk of developing complications during the later stages of infection if it is not addressed earlier. Remember, many people who contract COVID-19 may not require immediate medical help as long as they follow the recommendations of their healthcare providers. However, if you do not see any signs of improvement then it is important to get immediate medical attention.

Guidance for Social Distancing During COVID-19

Fri, 29 May 2020 15:04:05 GMT

Guidance for Social Distancing During COVID-19

Covid-19 is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets, which means people can be infected with the virus if they are in close proximity with an infected person. Social distancing is one of the precautionary measures put in place to curb the spread of COVID-19. People have been advised to keep social distancing between themselves and those outside their home. This strategy helps to flatten the curve and slow the spread of the virus to people who have not been infected. This article gives guidelines for social distancing during COVID-19 and how to stay connected while staying away.

Recommended Guidelines for Social Distancing

Keep at Least 6 Feet Between Yourself and Others

According to the CDC, you are required to stay at least 6 feet from other people because the spread happens when droplets from an infected person are launched into the air and lands on people nearby. This can occur when the individual talks, coughs or sneezes, and the droplets can only travel over a short distance. Staying 6 feet away from other people reduces your chances of infection and prevents an infected person from spreading the virus to other people.

Avoid Gathering in Groups

Now is not the time to hold gatherings at your friend’s house, restaurants, parks, or people outside your household. This includes both teens and younger adults since anyone can be infected with COVID-19. It is difficult to protect people in gatherings from getting infected and to identify persons who may have been exposed to the virus. Regardless of how small your gathering may be, you are likely to get infected from people who are already exposed but don’t show any signs of the infection.

Stay Out of Crowded Places

Even though you may be taking necessary measures to keep social distancing, there are other ways you can get infected when you are out in public. COVID-19 is not only spread through direct contact but also through touching surfaces that are contaminated with the virus. You can easily get infected when you are finding your way through crowded places, because any touched objects can expose you to the virus.

Work From Home When Possible

Working from home is another way you can practice social distancing as it limits your contact with the public. The CDC recommend working remotely as a way to flatten the curve. Many companies have asked their employees to work from home since there are many ways people can get infected in their workplaces. Doorknobs, computer keyboards, and other physical objects that can be touched can be contaminated with the virus. Businesses that cannot allow their employees to work from home have resorted to shutting down their premises as a restrictive measure by the Federal government.

Avoid Using Any Kind of Public Transportation

The potential risk of infection on buses, taxis, trains, and other means of public transport depend on how crowded they are and how far you can keep yourself from other people. An open window can help contagious droplets dissipate faster when someone coughs or sneezes. Even if you are alone at the backseat of a taxi, there are still chances of being infected through the surfaces you touch such as the handles or pressing the button that controls the rear window.

How to Stay Connected While Staying Away

Lack of social interaction can make you feel lonely, isolated, or depressed. It is important to reach out to other people for support if you are feeling this way since other people are struggling with the same feelings and are eager for a connection. You can take advantage of technology during this time by using your phone or video chat to keep in touch with your friends, loved ones, and distant family members. Routine chats with your loved ones can give your day a structure and give you something to look forward to. Just because we need to be physically distant during this time does not mean that we should be socially isolated. Reaching out to others and strengthening existing connections is crucial for your mental and emotional well-being.

Staying at home is one of the best ways to practice social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic as it limits your contact with the public. While practicing social distancing, it is also important to take care of yourself by sanitizing and washing your hands regularly, disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces, and maintain healthy lifestyle choices. These steps can help flatten the curve by keeping you safe from infection and preventing infected persons from transmitting the virus to other people.

How is The COVID-19 Pandemic Affecting Mental Health?

Sat, 23 May 2020 15:06:22 GMT

How is The COVID-19 Pandemic Affecting Mental Health?

We cannot lose sight of an equally alarming issue while countries across the globe continue to mobilize their efforts to contain the spread of COVID-19. There is a considerable degree of fear and worry about the ongoing pandemic, as it has affected usual activities, livelihoods, and daily routines of many people worldwide. This has led to increased levels of loneliness, anxiety, depression, suicidal behavior, and harmful alcohol and drug use. This article discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting mental health and what you can do to cope with your situation.

The Implication of COVID-19 on Mental Health

Social Isolation

Social distancing and quarantine are very new to many people since before the Coronavirus pandemic, we were all used to shaking hands, visiting social places, and holding parties with our families and friends. The younger generation in particular was used to hugging, which is something they cannot do, as it is one of the quickest ways of spreading COVID-19. It is quite a big change that some people find difficult to keep up with. Social distancing has led to fewer personal interactions that can make it harder to control your stress, emotions, and anxiety.

Boredom

Even though you might be working from home, being quarantined for a long time in your home can make you feel uneasy. This is especially true for extroverts who are outgoing and predominantly concerned with socializing. They are often considered by their friends as the ‘life and soul’ of the party and such people are not used to staying indoors for a long time. The fact that you cannot go to work, school, parties, or other social places can make you feel bored and you are already used to your current surroundings.

Overconsumption of News and Media

People have constant access to the news all the time, which can be sometimes filled with inaccurate information that intensifies your fears. One of the key things in this whole situation is to get good quality information so that you know why you are required to stay at home, wash your hands, and maintain social distancing. This is not the best time to get information from social media as it is creating a lot of anxiety for people. If you are too anxious, you tend to behave in a way that is not in your best interest.

Mob Mentality and Panic Buying

Ever since the first cases of COVID-19 were reported, there was a lot of panic going around that has been worsened by mob mentality. It has influenced people to behave in an overly emotional way by those around them. Although it may sound like a good idea to stock up, hoarding too much can lead to shortages of supplies for others who need it the most. Some people may be stressed because of the belief that there are not enough supplies for everybody but in the real sense, there is. If you do not have enough supplies to last through the pandemic, you are more likely to get stressed because you are worried about survival and how you will feed your family.

Stress About Finances

Many people are now out of work since all non-essential employees have been told to stay at home without any assurances of when they will go back to work. It is quite stressful going without a paycheck for months as it can bring up other financial troubles. Some individuals consider job layoffs and financial problems one of their leading causes of stress, which tells how extreme the situation has become. Not only does it affect your mental health, but it can lead to other health problems as well.

How to Cope with Anxiety and Mental Health during the COVID-19 Pandemic

It is important to get good information from quality professional news organizations like the CDC, the World Health Organization that are both local and national. Social distancing and isolation through quarantine is the best thing to do now, as it helps to flatten the curve. You can still make good use of social media platforms to reach out to your friends and family. It is still possible to talk to your psychiatrist over the phone or audio-visual media to help you manage your condition. Budget with what you can and try to limit your expenses as you look for other alternative sources of income.

It is important to approach stress with a calm and practical perspective. In this time of difficulties, it is important to make your health a priority by taking the necessary precautions against the spread of the virus. Eat healthily, exercise regularly, and practice good self-care as often as you can. Too much anxiety can be detrimental to your health so it is important to control your actions and understand that you are doing your part to help everyone else.

What to Do About Stress Increase Due to COVID-19

Thu, 14 May 2020 15:08:20 GMT

What to Do About Stress Increase Due to COVID-19

The outbreak of the COVID-19 disease has interfered with the normal ways of living for all people throughout the world. To reduce the rate of infections of the coronavirus, most governments, including ours, have put various regions and states under locked down. The government is also urging people to work from home. This has disrupted the normal eating and sleeping habits for most people. Restriction of movement has in one or another impacted the social lives, while the fear of infection and death from COVID-19 has been detrimental to mental health amongst most people. This article gives some insights on different ways to deal with stress due to COVID-19 to ensure optimal health.

Observe Healthy Nutrition

Restriction of movement during the pandemic has forced most people to work from home. Being in the house all the time has resulted in poor feeding habits because of the frequent moving in and out of the kitchen. What some of us may not know is that unhealthy eating increases stress levels especially in people with chronic health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cancer. Observing a healthy diet, on the other hand, can help reduce stress because it reduces the effects of some health conditions. This is because it is believed that a well-balanced diet enhances the production of cortisol while reducing the stress-causing hormone, serotonin.

Have Enough Sleep

Disruption of sleep patterns because of being idle and home most of the time can result in a lack of sleep. Lack of enough sleep increases stress levels and can even lead to depression and poor health. Having enough sleep reduces stress levels by increasing the feel-good hormone, cortisol. This affects overall health since most of the healing processes take place when someone is sleeping.

Seek Professional Mental Health Help

Most relief organizations, being aware of the effect COVID-19 has on mental health, are now volunteering to offer free counseling services online. Such mental health services are now being offered free of charge online, either via a video or audio link. They are just a call away so that you do not have to live in distress.

Do Some Physical Exercises

Due to bad eating habits, since most people are now working home, chances of developing lifestyle-related health conditions are very high. The worst-case scenario is when you add on some weight and risk being obese. When this happens, it comes with increased levels of stress since you no longer like how you like. Engaging in physical exercises increases self-confidence thus reducing stress levels. It also enhances the production of the feel-good hormone, dopamine, while at the same time reducing the stress hormone, serotonin. Physical exercises also reduce the effects of some health conditions like blood pressure and diabetes, and this works by reducing stress levels. Most people can argue that the restriction of movement does not allow them to have a jog or go to the gym. However, keeping fit does not have to mean going to the gym or jogging outside, you can go online and look up some of the many physical exercises you can do right from the confinement of your living room or back yard.

Identify Some New Hobbies

Since COVID-19 has forced us to remain home with most of the movement restricted, it is highly likely to become bored very fast and often. If the cycle continues for some days, this can result in increased levels of stress and ultimately chances of depression. That being the case therefore, you should engage more in your existing hobbies or even identify some new hobbies that do not involve being away from home.

Avoid Fake News

Fake news is all over, especially on social media so beware of this. It works by spreading propaganda through inaccurate data and facts, something that results in increased stress levels especially amongst kids and adults as well. Fake news stresses and weighs in on you. Before this happens, switch off the TV or watch a few minutes a day and only get the right information from verified sources like the CDC and WHO.

If you notice a lack of interest in things you used to enjoy, indigestion issues, irritation and crying amongst kids, abuse of alcohol, drugs, and substances, excessive worry or sadness and fatigue, then you could be experiencing stress. You may have not noticed any of the above signs since people react differently to pandemic related stress so watch out for any uncommon feelings. However, you can avoid this from happening in the first place by implementing the aforementioned tips to keep stress at bay during these trying times.

How to Deal with Financial Distress Caused by COVID-19

Fri, 08 May 2020 15:23:40 GMT

How to Deal with Financial Distress Caused by COVID-19

The necessary measures put in place to contain the COVID-19 outbreak have triggered an economic downturn. There is great uncertainty about its severity since no one seems to have an exact answer as when this crisis will end. The sudden lay-offs and government lockdowns that shut down businesses have cost people their jobs and source of income. It is a devastating blow for many who have found themselves out of work as businesses are forced to shut their doors indefinitely.

It is okay to feel stressed with everything that is going on especially if you are running low on your savings or finances. However, the best thing to do right now is to learn how to cope with reality and focus on making the best decisions for you and your family. This article looks at some of the ways you can deal with financial distress caused by COVID-19.

Prioritize Your Payments

If there is no enough money in circulation, chances are that you will run low on your finances at some point if you don’t prioritize how you spend what you have at the moment. If you have always taken pride in paying your bills on time, you need to do things a little differently in an emergency like this. First, you need to take care of your basic needs and necessities. If you cannot keep up with food takeout or doorstep deliveries then consider buying fresh food from the grocery store. Come up with a list of the order in which you need to take care of your bills and basic expenses.

Apply For Any Help You Are Eligible For

You may be eligible for some financial benefits relating to unemployment, disability, or family medical leave. Instead of waiting for your cash runway to go low, it is important to inquire about a paid leave or any financial benefits you may be eligible for. Keep in mind that rules vary by state and new laws may unfold as the government strives to figure out ways of addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. Although you may not have enough options if you are self-employed, do not be afraid to access your state government’s website as you can qualify for other financial benefits as well.

Opting Out of Auto-Payment Subscriptions

It is important to think about the costs you can control if you are worried about your short-term finances. Now is the time to reconsider your subscriptions and prioritize them based on what can help generate revenue rather than increase your expenditure. Place your auto payments on hold to help you focus your finances on necessities. You can limit yourself temporarily to what you can live without until you get your finances back in good shape.

Contact Your Creditors

It is important to contact your creditors as quickly as possible before you start getting behind on your payments. Your lenders can always consider skipping payments, revised terms, mortgage payment deferrals, loan extensions, and reduced interest rates. The kind of feedback you may get from your creditors may vary depending on your payment history, your credit behavior, and the time you contact them about your current situation.

Look for Alternative Sources of Income

It remains unclear how long the COVID-19 outbreak will last and how long our finances will be affected. In the meantime, you can start looking for alternative sources of income. You can start by selling things that do not have any use around the house to help you raise cash for the short term. It is possible to earn extra cash from home by offering your services online or joining the freelancing platforms. If nothing fits in your category, then seek help from a mentor who can help you find your passion.

Manage Your Mental Health and Physical Wellbeing

Financial distress can lead to poor mental health because the more you are stressed about your finances, the harder it is to manage your psychological well-being. The sudden disruption of your work routine, the stress of unemployment, and the uncertainty of what may unfold in the future are additional factors that may interfere with your mental health. Some of the ways you can get through this pandemic with a sound mind are by practicing good self-care, keep a positive attitude, seek emotional support, get physically active and focus on what you can control.

As government officials and health care professionals work day and night to save lives and implement policies that keep us safe, you have to do whatever you can to get through the COVID-19 outbreak with a sound mind and body. Focus much of your attention on things that you can control and always hope for the better.

Benefits of Social Distancing In Preventing COVID-19

Tue, 28 Apr 2020 15:23:42 GMT

Benefits of Social Distancing In Preventing COVID-19

COVID 19 is a contagious respiratory-related disease caused by a virus known as coronavirus. It is spread when an uninfected person touches or inhales aerosols of cough or sneeze from an infected person. When an infected person sneezes or coughs and leaves those droplets on a surface then an uninfected person touches the same surface, they may be infected too.

The Virus attaches itself on the surface of the respiratory organs as well as the lungs, hence affecting breathing. A severely affected patient of COVID 19 breathes through the aid of a device known as a ventilator. The disease has killed hundreds of thousands of people throughout the world and has no cure or a vaccine yet. The only option left for the uninfected people is to protect themselves to avoid contracting the virus. This is achieved through thorough washing of hands with soap under running water, sanitizing, wearing face masks and maintaining social distance. This article gives more information regarding social distancing and its benefits in preventing COVID-19.

What is Social Distancing?

This is the distance kept between one person and another when in public. The recommended distance is 6ft or 2m. Since maintaining this distance is hard, especially in public facilities, people are advised to stay and work from home to achieve this distance.

Benefits of Social Distancing

Slows the Spread of COVID-19

Since the virus that causes COVID 19 is spread by droplets from a sneeze or cough of an infected person, maintaining social distancing helps slow the spread of the disease. It also reduces the chances of an uninfected person touching surfaces with droplets that contain coronavirus. If for example, a 100 people were converged in one place and one of them happens to be infected, they would all be infected with COVID 19. They would then disperse and each of them would go infecting other people and the chain continues. Eventually, we would have a world full of sick people.

Protects Uninfected Persons

Maintaining social distance helps protect the most vulnerable people in the society from being infected with COVID 19. The most vulnerable group of people include the elderly, those already suffering from respiratory-related conditions like asthma and tuberculosis, diabetes patients, people with compromised immune system as well as babies. As we all know, people with a weak immune are susceptible to all sorts of infections such as common colds among other infectious diseases. Babies have a weak immune that has not fully developed to fight strong infections like common colds leave alone COVID 19. Old people, on the other hand, have a weak immune since their bodies can no longer produce enough antibodies to fight infections. It is evident from the statistics and daily briefings that the majority of deaths from COVID 19 in Italy are the elderly. This is why health departments all over the world are urging people to stay home to avoid bringing back the virus to the most vulnerable people amongst our societies.

It Gives Healthcare Workers Time to Prepare

Social distancing helps reduce the rate of infections for COVID-19, hence decongesting our healthcare facilities. So many patients would only overwork the healthcare workers and cause more deaths since there can never be enough staff for everyone. Reduced rates of infection means that healthcare workers have enough time to prepare for a moderate number of COVID-19 patients. The smaller the rate of infections, the less overworked the staff is and able to tend fully tend to the infected people, hence more recoveries.

Helps Decongest Isolation Wards

Failure to maintain social distancing only leads to an increase in the infection rate. The ripple effect of this is that isolation wards are crowded. Since no country in the world has enough ventilators to help a large number of COVID 19 patients, healthcare systems would be overwhelmed, making the situation worse that it is.

In a bid to help maintain social distancing, employers and the government has demanded people to work from home and avoid unnecessary movement. Some regions and countries have been put under total lockdown. People only move out when they need to buy essential supplies like food and medication. Most food and drug companies have now joined in the fight against the pandemic. They are now delivering food and drugs to peoples’ doorsteps to discourage them from moving around. That being said, you should help sensitize the need for keeping social distancing to flatten the infection rate curve. Therefore, unless you have very important things to do, consider staying at home, and if you go out, be sure to maintain the recommended distance.

Things to Do At Home to Stay Healthy During the COVID-19 Quarantine

Fri, 24 Apr 2020 15:26:38 GMT

Things to Do At Home to Stay Healthy During the COVID-19 Quarantine

Quarantine simply means that you will be ultimately spending a lot of time at home. It is therefore quite easy for you to lose shape due to poor eating habits thus becoming unhealthy if you do not follow a certain routine that you were previously accustomed to before quarantine. There are several things that you can do while still at home to ensure that you stay healthy and fit during this quarantine. This article talks about exactly that.

Hydrating

Drinking water is very important for our general and overall health. The amount of water that you should drink is premised on your age and other factors such as height and weight. For most people, water is readily available since tap water can also suffice, as it is affordable and healthy too. You can also add some lemon in case you want to make the water more refreshing and tasty. It is also great to point out that other drinks such as tea, coffee and different kinds of infusions are fitting options for hydration.

Eating a Balanced Diet

Unfortunately, no exact foods you can consume to enhance and boost your immune system to a level where it can be safe to say that you cannot contract the COVID-19 disease. However, you can decide to have a very balanced diet consisting of some fruits, vegetables and some whole grains to boost your immune system. Be sure to eat nutrient-rich foods to ensure the maintenance of your great health. More so, since you will spend a lot of time at home, it is incumbent on you to eat your food in portions to make sure that you do not consume more calories than essentially needed for the attainment of a perfect energy balance.

Proper Food Hygiene

Medical experts and specialists have postulated that COVID-19 can be easily transmitted through food consumption. It is therefore great to practice proper food hygiene to curb and inhibit any COVID-19 transmission through food. This can be attained through cleaning your hands for approximately 20 seconds before getting into the kitchen to prepare food and doing the same immediately after cooking. This includes cleaning and disinfecting surfaces while still ensuring that you clean any fruit before consumption.

Routine and Responsible Eating

Most people tend to eat more because of stress and other different kinds of mental exertion. A routine is therefore vital as it rids you of these kinds of incessant issues while simultaneously ensuring that you abide by your personal, well-defined and scheduled eating times. This helps to make sure that you can assume perfect control over your hunger pangs. Responsible eating makes sure that you avoid snacking even when you do not necessarily have to because of boredom in quarantine.

Working Out at Home

Physical workouts are great for your entire body and mind as well. A good work out session for an adult should be around 30 minutes whereas children should aim to have some proper physical activity of approximately one hour. This should range from usual, regular and basic sessions to high-intensity interval training for people more used and acquainted with intense and complex workouts. You could also follow and use some online work out classes. Dancing and aerobics sessions are also great as they all entail physical activity.

Ample Sleep

Sleep deprivation is very dangerous as it has calamitous consequences such weakened immunity and bad mental and physical health. Adults should strive to get at least 8 hours of sleep daily. COVID 19 could seriously affect your sleep patterns due to stress and anxiety. Your sleep should be improved by adhering to a specific sleep schedule and avoid smoking, drinking alcohol and taking coffee just before going to bed. Working out, decluttering your room and using cozy and comfortable beddings should aid to improve your sleep hence affecting and improving your overall health. Getting enough sleep is therefore paramount in these trying and testing times where the pandemic has brought everything to a standstill hence culminating in a lot of scaremongering and anxiety.

The quarantine period means you get to spend a lot of time at home with very little to do. Boredom and living a sedentary lifestyle can affect both your physical and mental health. It is hence important to consume a balanced diet, do some home workouts, and ensure you get enough sleep. In addition to this, be sure to stay in touch with your loved ones, especially those you do not get to see every day because of the quarantine. Doing these simple things will go a long way in keeping you healthy.

Mental Health and Coping With COVID-19

Wed, 08 Apr 2020 15:29:23 GMT

Mental Health and Coping With COVID-19

Many people suffer from depression and anxiety probably due to their current lifestyle, financial strains, or underlying health conditions. When there is something bigger that adds to that, it can make things worse. When the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic, this caused a lot of panic worldwide. Many of people, including those that are not infected, do not have a choice but to quarantine in their homes as health providers work effortlessly to save lives.

Fear and anxiety about the COVID-19 pandemic can be overwhelming for both adults and children during this critical time. It is important to take care of your mental health to keep yourself safe at home. This article looks at some the ways to protect your mental health during this time of COVID-19.

Focus on the Things You Can Control

Since you cannot control everything that is happening, it is important to focus on the things you can control. This might involve washing your hands with a sanitizer, practicing good hygiene, and staying at home to reduce your chances of getting infected. Although they are not natural things that you should hyper-focus on, now is the best time to make this your daily routine, as it helps to keep the virus at bay. All kinds of mass shutdowns and closures give you more control over keeping yourself and others safe at home.

Find Creative Ways to Connect With People

Social media is going to play a big part in this, as it is the safest means of getting in touch with your family and friends without meeting them physically. You can do a group livestream, a group chat, or online hangout with your friends and family. Since many people are now at home, it leaves a lot of downtimes to fit in this kind of socialization. Any kind of socialization on social media prevents you from feeling lonely and is a great way to check how your friends and colleagues are spending their time at home.

Limit the News

It is important to limit the time you spend watching the news as it instills fear and anxiety of what may happen in the following days or weeks. You need to strike a balance between keeping updated and informed about what is going on versus being overloaded with death counts. Although we need to be aware of how serious the COVID-19 outbreak is, you do not need a series of continuous updates. Probably, you can limit the amount of watching news to morning and evening.

Structure Your Day

It is easier to fall into a more lethargic lifestyle as you work from home and could eventually lead to negative thinking. Some people have always worked from home and they thrive doing it because it is what they do for a living. However, for others, the lack of separation between your work and your home life can diminish their meaning of life. The best way to deal with this type of anxiety is to stay close to your normal routine before the quarantine. For instance, this may include waking up at the usual time, dressing up for the day, and setting a start and stop time for your work. You can also go to a separate room to do your work to avoid turning your personal space into a work zone.

Spend Some Time Outside If You Can

The Coronavirus is transmitted through contact and airborne infection and thus requires close proximity to the infected persons. That is why there is a recommendation for setting a 6-foot distance. However, it should not prevent you from breathing in some fresh air and enjoying the sunset. However, this works best if you have access to a yard, a porch, or a deck, as it allows you to spend time outside in the fresh air and natural sunlight. It is more calming to get closer to nature rather than keep yourself locked away in the house the whole day.

It is important to realize that the virus does not select certain segments of the population or a particular individual. Doctors and other health professionals too are not protected from the fear of being infected by the virus. Anyone can get infected regardless of their age, gender, or profession and the fast spread of COVID-19 puts everyone in heightened anxiety and fear. Implementing the above strategies can help you cope with anxiety, and get through this pandemic with good physical and mental health.

How To Deal With Anxiety During This Time Of Layoffs Caused By COVID-19

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 15:27:55 GMT

How To Deal With Anxiety During This Time Of Layoffs Caused By COVID-19

Thousands of people have lost their jobs following the total lockdowns and isolation centres put in place to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak. With many offices going on temporary hiatuses and others forcing employees to work from home, many shift workers have lost their jobs as they are incapable of providing any services out of their place of business. The rising death tolls of COVID-19 victims has raised a lot of panic on what the future holds, especially if you lack a source of income to pay your bills and food.

Learning how to cope with anxiety after a lay off not only helps you maintain good physical and mental health but also gives you hope for a better future. This article looks at some of the ways you can deal with anxiety during this time of layoffs caused by COVID-19.

Stay Positive and Optimistic

It is important to understand that being fired or temporarily laid off is nothing personal. For instance, if you were a leader in your team, then it means people believed you because they saw the value in your work. Layoffs affect both parties since your employer is not having a good time either. The more positive and optimistic you are in a situation like this, and the less of a victim you are, the more responsibility, power, and respect you gather from everyone that sees you. The key to getting this right is by acknowledging the emotions of despair and accept your current situation since your job doesn’t define who you are.

Find Someone To Talk To

Instead of bad-mouthing your boss or old company on social media and other online platforms, try to find someone to talk to as they can help you get over it. Being fired or laid off allows you to be more than your job or boss since you have another chance to start over again. Talking to your closest friend or a mentor about how you feel and what you can do about it helps to ease your mind from the unexpected outcome. A good mentor may open your mind to new possibilities that can help you meet both your financial and life goals.

Think About the Costs You Can Control

If you are worried about your finances in the short term, then look for ways to relieve yourself of financial burdens that you can handle. For instance, you can negotiate with your debtors whether they can lower your interest or if you can delay your instalments. Another way you can control your costs is by halting auto payments or reconsider your subscriptions. Limit yourself to what you can live without temporarily until you get another source of income.

Apply for Unemployment Benefits

Whether you are furloughed or laid off, you can apply for unemployment benefits and look for other similar programs that may be available in your area, state, city or county. For instance, some of the laid-off workers in the US may qualify for a pandemic relief program that can take your mind of the emotional and financial burden of losing your primary source of income. Regardless of your current situation, it is still worth checking into these programs to see if you qualify, not for free money, but getting some of your tax dollars back.

Know Your Cash Runway

A cash runway is essentially how long you can go before running out of money. If you do not want to wait until it is too late, consider selling off any unproductive assets. These are items that sucked up your time and money without giving you more money in return. Alternatively, you can downgrade your living situation which aims at cutting down your expenses to extend your cash runway.

Look Towards the Future

Lastly, you can now focus on the future by figuring out your goals and what you want your next move to be. If you didn’t get fulfillment in your previous job, then you should consider other dreams and ambitions that are slightly bigger than what you just left. You can take the skills you have been developing to the next industry or move to a different city where the cost of living works in your favor.

The key to getting out of the COVID-19 outbreak with a sound mind and good health is by using this time as an opportunity to get one step closer to your true destiny. Look for ways to build your skills while generating some income and extend your cash runway. Whatever your situation is, you need to take this situation seriously and force it into an opportunity to make you more self-reliant and independent.

What are the Main Symptoms of UTI?

Mon, 30 Mar 2020 15:31:26 GMT

What are the Main Symptoms of UTI?

A UTI is an abbreviation for a Urinary Tract Infection. The main cause of UTI is microbes that often overwhelm the body’s defense mechanism in the urinary tract. It entails an infection, which can be present in any part of your urinary system. This includes the kidneys, urethra, bladder and the ureters. However, most infections are more prevalent in the bladder and the urethra or simply in the lower urinary tract. Women are more susceptible to UTI and their risk of getting an infection is approximately 1 in 2. This is in stark contrast to men whose risk is 1 in 10.

Women could also experience these infections repeatedly hence, ample caution ought to be taken to ensure that the infection is treated before it spirals out of control. An infection is very painful and it can become very severe if it proceeds and spreads to the kidneys. UTIs are mostly treated with antibiotics. There are several main symptoms that manifest hence indicating that one is possibly suffering from a urinary tract infection. This article shall exhaustively discuss these symptoms.

Irresistible Impulse to Urinate But Only Passing Tiny Amounts of Urine

Irresistible impulse to urinate but only passing less urine than normal is a major symptom and sign that you are potentially suffering from a urinary tract infection. You might experience some very intense urge to urinate but nothing comes out when you try to pass some urine. The bladder is very irritated hence making you feel like you want to urinate. This happens even when you have very little amounts of urine in your bladder.

Fatigue and Trembling

Fatigue and trembling is a very common and clear indicator of some potential UTI infection. One may feel completely knackered or worn out. This is a very confusing symptom because it is also common in other varying types of bodily infections thus you should consult a physician immediately to ensure that there is a precise diagnosis that can be narrowed down to a UTI infection.

Burning Feeling When Urinating

This scalding feeling alongside a discomfort in the lower abdomen when urinating is a major symptom of a UTI infection. In case you experience this symptom, you should liaise with a doctor as soon as practically possible.

Fever and Nausea

Fever is a very clear indicator that the infection might have reached your kidneys hence necessitating immediate medical attention. This infection also causes nausea and vomiting thus it ought to be treated promptly before it spreads to the blood hence causing some major issues, which can be fatal and life threatening.

Urine That is Relatively Murky

This entails some very cloudy urine. It is a main symptom of a possible UTI.

A Full Bladder Even After Passing Urine

You may pass urine but still feel like your bladder is still full. This is often attributed to a UTI and it should not be trivialized as something minor as the repercussions might be fatal.

Leaks

This happens when you have absolutely no control thus leaking some urine. It is a major sign of some possible UTI.

Urine Which a Powerful Smell or Odor

This kind of unusual smell is a major symptom of a UTI. The infection culminates into a very bad smell when you pass urine and it often requires immediate treatment before it rapidly spreads and possibly infects the kidneys hence resulting to calamitous consequences.

Niggling Pains in the Back and Sometimes in the Lower Abdomen

This symptom is often disregarded as experiencing pain that can subside on its own as is quite normal. However, it is often a sign of a serious infection and thus has to be considered as a symptom of a UTI.

Other Symptoms

Pelvic pain in women and rectal pain in men is often deemed a serious symptom of a UTI. Some minute traces of blood in the urine might also involve a potential sign that you might have UTI. These symptoms should not be overlooked as they often imply that you might be suffering from a urinary infection that should be treated immediately.

It is therefore prudent to conclude and surmise that UTIs are quite easy to diagnose or recognize primarily based on the aforementioned symptoms. These symptoms always manifest themselves at the outset hence they must be perceived as a major sign of a UTI which needs to be treated before it becomes fatal and a threat to one’s life. If you happen to experience any of these symptoms, you should consider seeing a doctor as soon as possible.

What Causes Ear Infections?

Sat, 21 Mar 2020 15:33:14 GMT

What Causes Ear Infections?

The ear, nose, and throat are interconnected and they work hand in hand with each other. An infection in one of these three organs may affect the health of the others. This, therefore, means that an ear infection may be due to bacterial attack in the throat or the nose. Usually, people with a compromised immune system are more at risk of ear infections because they are more susceptible to diseases. This article focuses on the most common causes of ear infections.

Cold and Flu

When you have a cold, flu or allergy, usually it is because of a virus or bacteria. In response, the airways produce overly more mucus that in turn causes the blockage of the nasal cavity, as well as the airways. Due to the blockage of the nasal cavity, which is connected to the ear, infectious fluid is trapped in the inner ear, and this causes infection due to the same bacteria. In the same process, the buildup of fluid causes increased pressure within the ear, causing you to experience a lot of pain.

Swollen Eustachian Tubes

The Eustachian tubes are narrow canals, running from the middle to the high ends of the ear. The tubes are responsible for the drainage of secretions out of the ear, regulation of the air quality in the ear, as well as control of pressure within the air. Due to injuries or infections, the Eustachian tubes may become swollen. When this happens, the ear is not able to secret fluids out of the ear. As a result, the buildup of fluids causes infection in the inner ear, hence pains due to increased pressure. In adults, the Eustachian tubes are a little inclined at an angle to allow better flow of secretions, hence less susceptible to ear infections. In children, the tubes are more horizontal, something that causes poor secretion of fluids. This places kids at an increased risk of ear infections.

Poor Air Quality

Air pollution through smoke and pollen may cause blockage of the nasal cavity, while dust may bring bacteria and viruses. At the same time, mold and mildew can grow, and this affects your breathing system. Since the nasal cavity is connected to the ear, this blockage impacts the smooth flow of secretions from the inner ear. The result of this is the buildup of fluids and the possibility of an infection.

Swollen Adenoids

At the back of the nose, are two pads that are responsible for the activation of the immune system. Since the nose is connected to the ear, swelling of the adenoids, which are close to the Eustachian tubes, cause infection of the ear. This is because as the adenoids swell, secretion of fluids from the ear is impacted. At the same time, pressure builds up in the air and this leads to a very sharp earache. Children have larger adenoids than adults, something that makes them more likely to get ear infections because of the swelling of these glands.

Age

Children below 2 years are more at the risk of an ear infection because their immune systems are still developing. Children playgroups also play a role in ear infections amongst children because of infecting each other with cold and flu. Breast milk is known to contain antibodies that help babies fight diseases and infections. This, therefore, means that babies who are fed through the bottle are more at the risk of ear infections than their breastfed counterparts are. With this in mind, experts advise that you should breastfeed your child as much as possible. Furthermore, children have horizontal Eustachian tubes, which cause less secretion of fluids out of the ear.

Due to the buildup of pressure in the middle ear, the first sign and symptom of ear infection is a sharp pain. It should be treated with the use of over the counter, OTC drugs such as painkillers. In babies, earaches can be treated with drugs such as paracetamol but must be administered with the directive of a doctor. Ear infections in children are treated with the use of eardrops. Most eardrops contain saline water that helps in fighting bacteria and germs in the inner ear. However, because children are delicate, you should always consult with a pediatrician before administering eardrops. In adults, ear infections are treated with antibiotics or eardrops. Usually, the infections last until about a week but should the symptoms persist, seek medical intervention immediately. However, since you now understand the causes of ear infections, you are now better placed to prevent this problem in the first place.

Things You Should Be Doing To Prevent Coronavirus Infection

Sat, 14 Mar 2020 15:35:42 GMT

Things You Should Be Doing To Prevent Coronavirus Infection

Despite the many efforts being put in place to prevent the spread of coronavirus, the virus has spread to every country around the world. With new cases being reported every day, it seems like the spread is not stopping any time soon. It therefore does make a lot of sense to learn a few tips that you can implement to prevent yourself from contracting the virus. This article describes exactly that.

Managing Your Personal Hygiene

Despite the many resources being put out there telling you to boost your immune system by for instance, taking supplements, one crucial thing you can do to prevent COVID-19 infection is managing your personal hygiene. Simple hygiene rules such as washing your hands regularly and trying your best not to touch your face can go a long way.

Social Distancing

Humans are natural social beings and that is why we are always in close contact with other people. However, with the virus spreading quite fast, we have to be vigilant in regards to how we engage with other people. Try your best to reduce shaking hands, hugging, and kissing. These might look like simple actions, but they go a long way in preventing the spread of the virus.

Make Proper Preparations At Work or in School

Infectious diseases like COVID-19 spread fast where people gather in larger numbers. Such places can include schools and workplaces, where people are usually in small rooms together. Proper measures hence have to be put in place to minimize the risk of spreading the disease. Densely populated schools have to be closed and classes conducted online. If you are parent, you can make sure your kids stay safe by encouraging them to wash their hands frequently even when in school.

The same thing should happen in workplaces. If you are an employer, make plans for your employees to work from home. This does not have to happen, but it is an incredible idea. Ensure sick people leave and come up with ways to keep your business running even when some workers have to stay home.

Seek Medical Attention If You Have a Fever, Cough, or Breathing Difficulties

If you have a fever, cough, and breathing difficulty, you should consider seeking medical attention as fast as possible. You cannot afford taking any chances during this time. Doing this will help protect you and prevent the virus from spreading.

Stay Informed

You should yearn to stay informed on the latest developments about the coronavirus. This will go a long way in helping you learn about the latest measures that you should be putting in place to reduce its spread. Be sure to follow the guidelines being laid out by the government and healthcare experts. While staying informed is important, you should not panic or blame people when they spread the disease. Doing this will only cause it to spread further, as people will try hiding their symptoms.

Steps to Protect Others

If you feel sick or are actually sick with COVID-19, then you have a role to protect others from contracting the disease. This part of the article looks at some things you can do to protect other people.

Stay Home

If you are tested positive, then you should self-quarantine by staying home apart from when going to get medical care.

Wear a Face Mask

You should consider wearing a facemask when around other people. If you do not have access to a facemask, you should do your best to cover sneezes and coughs. If you are not sick, then you should not wear a facemask unless when tending for a sick person.

Cover Coughs and Sneezes

Speaking of coughs and sneezes, you should cover them with a tissue and then dispose it in the trash. Afterward, wash your hands with clean water and soap for not less than 20 seconds. Later on, clean your hands with a sanitizer.

Clean and Disinfect

You should clean all areas you touch such as countertops, tables, doorknobs, keyboards, sinks, faucets, and handles.

Despite the many efforts being implemented by governments and healthcare experts to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the disease is still spreading. You therefore need to learn the best ways to take care of yourself to prevent infection. You should ensure proper hygiene, practice social distancing, make proper preparations in crowded places to reduce spread, stay informed, and seek medical attention when feeling sick. These are simple things to do but they go a long way in preventing infection and keeping everyone safe.

Reasons to Have a Spirometry Test

Sat, 07 Mar 2020 15:37:15 GMT

Reasons to Have a Spirometry Test

Spirometry is a standard test that is used to measure the amount of air that flows in and out of your lungs. The device used to perform a spirometry test is known as a spirometer and it works by recording the amount of air you breathe in and out and the speed of your breath. The physician performing the test will explain what you need to do, and you may be required to repeat the procedure a few times. The consistency of your results determines whether your lungs are working properly.

It is important to understand why you need a spirometry test especially when you are scheduled for the procedure as it helps you prepare both psychologically and physically. This article looks at some reasons why you should have a spirometry test.

Early Diagnosis of Lung Conditions

A spirometry test helps to diagnose conditions that affect the amount of air your lungs can hold. If your doctor suspects that your symptoms are caused by a chronic lung condition, he or she may suggest a spirometry test to diagnose the problem. A few examples of chronic lung conditions include asthma, chronic bronchitis, pulmonary fibrosis, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These lung conditions narrow the airways making it difficult to empty air of the lungs. The results from a spirometry test can help your doctor diagnose any lung conditions and determine the cause of your symptoms.

Provide Better Treatment

The results from a spirometry test provide timely data to physicians and are more convenient for patients as it uses non-invasive techniques. Doctors use the results to provide the best treatment plan for your condition. Onsite testing increases patient adherence to completing lung function evaluations and decreases wait times because it only takes a few minutes to get the results. The development of personalized treatment planning relies on accurate diagnoses from a spirometry test, which helps to optimize patient outcomes.

Monitoring the Progress of Your Symptoms

The results from a routine spirometry test can be used to monitor your lung condition periodically. This helps doctors to determine whether you are responding well to medication. It is possible to determine whether. The device records the amount of air passing in and out of your lungs as well as the speed of your breath. If the spirometry test results are taking a downward trend, then your doctor may adjust your medication and treatment. Since the procedure involves the use of non-invasive techniques, it encourages patient satisfaction because people are always eager to find out the cause of their health condition.

To Determine the Severity of Your Condition

If you have already been diagnosed with a lung condition, your doctor may recommend a spirometry test to assess the severity of your condition. The results from a spirometry test can be used to determine whether your lung condition is restrictive, obstructive, or a combination of the two. Obstructive lung disease is a condition that affects your ability to breathe out quickly but the amount of air held by your lungs is normal. Restrictive lung disease is a condition that reduces the amount of air you can breathe in because your lungs cannot expand fully to let in air. Some examples of obstructive lung disease are asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Pulmonary fibrosis is a common example of restrictive lung disease.

How to Interpret Your Results

Your spirometry test results may not be given to you immediately as they need to be examined by a specialist and sent to your doctor. The results produce two beneficial values that are used to assess and monitor the symptoms of a patient with impaired lung function. Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) refers to the total amount of air that an individual can breathe out at full capacity. Forced Expiratory Volume measured over 1 second (FEV1) is the amount of airflow during the first second of the forced vital capacity. The FEV1 is divided by FVC to give the air proportion that can be expelled in one second from the lungs. A low FVC reading indicates restricted breathing while low FEV1 reading indicates a significant breathing obstruction.

The primary role of a spirometry test is to provide a physiologic measurement that helps in the diagnosis and management of lung conditions. Good-quality spirometry should be done by a well-trained practitioner and requires a high-quality spirometer for accurate diagnoses. A specialized expert should interpret your results to help determine the best treatment plan for you.

Is Coughing a Symptom of Cold?

Sat, 29 Feb 2020 15:38:25 GMT

Is Coughing a Symptom of Cold?

A cough plays a significant role in fighting off cold and flu viruses that infect the body through the nasal lining. It usually starts as a tickle in the throat that turns into a full-blown dry cough indicating a serious infection of the upper respiratory tract. Coughing is a body’s defense mechanism that facilitates the expulsion of foreign particles, microbes, and excess mucus from the respiratory tract, which prevents infections, and inflammation of the lung.

It occurs when the nerves in the larynx become irritated by cold air, allergies, infections, or dust particles. A cough can either be a conscious act that is voluntary or uncontrollable and involuntary. This article discusses whether coughing is a symptom of cold and what to do about it.

How is Cough Related to Cold?

A cold usually starts with a sore throat and you may start coughing as a way to clear the mucus or foreign particles blocking your throat. You may start experiencing other symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, and fatigue. During the first few days, you may experience a mild cough that can worsens over time. A cough that produces dark or thick mucus is an indication that you have a bacterial infection. These symptoms may start between 1 to 3 days after being infected with a cold virus and can last up to a week.

A cough is usually considered an early symptom of cold because your body’s immunity system tries to expel the microbes and other foreign particles that block your respiratory airways. The damage caused to the nasal cell lining can lead to severe coughing and may require antibiotics for quick relief.

Is it a Cold or an Allergy?

Diagnosing and providing treatment for a cough is sometimes difficult because many patients are uncertain about the exact cause of their condition. As a result, most people fail to seek proper medical attention and instead, take incorrect medications that can be detrimental to their overall health.

A dry cough can either be a symptom of a cold or an allergic reaction. It is usually accompanied by other symptoms such as nasal congestion or runny nose that occur simultaneously for an individual suffering from an allergic reaction or a common cold. An allergic cough occurs when an overactive immune system responds aggressively to foreign substances in your body. This triggers the defense system, which fails to distinguish substances that are harmful from those that are harmless. There are situations when you may experience persistent cough for several weeks after catching a cold.

Any small amount of dust or cold air can trigger a cough when your respiratory airways are overly sensitive. It can also be caused by pertussis infection that occurs in both adults and children. If your cough does not seem to go away on its own then you might consider using antibiotics recommended by your doctor. However, antibiotics may not be effective if your cough becomes chronic. It is always important to seek medical help if your cough does not improve even after a cold.

Cold Symptoms and Causes

Different types of viruses often cause a cold. One of the common viruses that cause cold is rhinovirus. Once you get infected, your body reacts by producing antibodies that fight the foreign virus. As a result, it causes an increase in mucus production, which can lead to a runny nose. It also brings about nasal congestion that makes it hard to breathe. When this happens, your body responds through sneezing and coughing.

Sneezing occurs because of irritation in the nose while coughing is caused by the increased amount of mucus dripping down your throat. You can catch a cold through the air or in direct contact with an infected person. Other symptoms of cold include fever, tickly throat, chills, headaches, mild fatigue, watery eyes, and fussiness. The duration of the symptoms may vary depending on an individual but usually manifest within one to three days after exposure to the virus.

A cough is one of the symptoms of cold caused by the reaction of your body’s defense system to the cold-causing virus. However, a persistent cough that continues a few weeks after your cold symptoms are gone could be a sign of an underlying health problem. Children are more likely to suffer from a cold than adults because of their immature immune systems. It is important to seek medical attention if your condition does not seem to improve on its own or with self-treatment at home.

Are Gardasil Shots Safe?

Sat, 22 Feb 2020 15:39:48 GMT

Are Gardasil Shots Safe?

Gardasil is the vaccine used to treat Human Papillomavirus, HPV that is known to cause cancers and warts of the vagina, vulva as well as the anus. There have been several controversies revolving around the vaccine, with some people claiming that it causes infertility among women. Although the vaccine does come with its few side effects, the issue of infertility is not one of the side effects, which means that this claim is baseless. After extensive research and studies concerning the vaccine, experts now say that the benefits of Gardasil outweigh the side effects since they are rare and different in every individual.

Worldwide Acceptance

The menace of cancer is not a concern only in the United States but also a global problem that has and continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives of women daily. In the US alone, approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer and this disease claims about 4,000 of these lives. It is important to note that Gardasil is not just used in the US alone. Since its approval by the FDA In the year 2006, millions of this vaccine has been distributed throughout the world in a bid to tackle cancer. On the other side, it has not been welcomed without some bits of rejection, because of the misunderstanding that surrounds the vaccine. Fortunately, it has greatly gained popularity and is now being used in most countries. Despite this, some good results have been achieved.

Few Mild Side Effects

The FDA, in conjunction with the CDC, has a joint task force for monitoring the safety reposts for all vaccines. The Vaccine Adverse Events Reporting System, VAERS, has since its approval received some rare cases of side effects that include vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, fainting, and pain during the shot, slight fever and fatigue. All of these side effects are mild and they only take a few days before fading away. Experts advise that should any of these take longer than a week, you should revisit the gynecologist. They further advise that to reduce the risk of these side effects, you should disclose all the underlying health issues before being given the shot.

Prevention Against Cancer

The FDA approved Gardasil to treat four types of HPV; 6, 11, 16 in females between the age of 9 and 26 years. It is administered in two or three doses and issued to help prevent the cancer of the cervix, anus as well as the vulvar. It is also used to help prevent genital warts in both men and women. Research done among many people shows that they were cured of the viruses, hence at a reduced risk of contracting the cancers, compared to the women who did not have the shot.

Highly Approved

In a bid to reduce the effects HPV in accelerating the cancers of the anus, cervical and vulvar in women, the CDC conducted several researches and came up with the vaccine. However, before releasing it into the public, they conducted several tests to ascertain its safety and they were satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that Gardasil poses no threat to human health. On the contrary, it has a significant benefit in women suffering from HPV. The FDA did their separate research and confirmed that it is safe for use by women. They, therefore, approved its use in June of the year 2006.

Closely Monitored

The CDC and the FDA, through the VAERS, continues to monitor the behavior of all vaccines available for public use in the US; it is no different with Gardasil. Since its inception, the system has only reported a few cases of mild and rare side effects. There has been no single case of serious side effects such as the previously claimed inability to conceive. On the contrary, Gardasil has been used to reverse infertility caused by the HPV. This has seen a great reduction in the cases of cervical cancer.

What Causes Abdominal Pain?

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 15:41:26 GMT

What Causes Abdominal Pain?

Abdominal or stomach pain refers to pain that occurs in the area below your ribs and the pelvic region. It can be dull, achy, crampy, sharp, or intermittent. It may occur because of inflammation or illnesses that affect the organs in the abdomen. Some of the major organs in the abdomen include the stomach, intestines, appendix, spleen, kidneys, gallbladder, pancreas, and liver. You may experience significant abdominal pain when your digestive tract is affected by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections. This article looks at the common causes of abdominal pain and available treatment options.

Food Poisoning

Eating contaminated food can lead to food poisoning. While it may seem a common problem, it can also be distressing and life threatening if you do not receive immediate medical attention. In most cases, bacteria such as Escherichia coli and salmonella usually contaminate the food. A virus such as the norovirus that causes vomiting and diarrhea can also cause abdominal pain. You may experience the symptoms of food poisoning within one or two days after eating contaminated food. Some of the common symptoms of food poisoning include abdominal pain, stomach cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Food Allergies or Intolerance

Some people are always allergic to eating a certain type of food. The unpleasant reaction to something you ate is known as food intolerance. A food allergy occurs when your body’s immune system is reacting to the food you ate when it does not need to. However, food intolerance is usually caused by a problem with digesting the food and your immune system is not responsible for the reaction. This can cause abdominal pain because your body’s immune system is reacting to the food you ate or intolerance to gluten, lactose or other food additives.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that affects the large intestine. It is usually caused by muscle contractions in the intestine, nerve abnormalities in your digestive system, or inflammations in the intestines. Besides causing abdominal pain, other symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome include cramping, constipation, gas, bloating and diarrhea. Unlike food poisoning, IBS is a chronic condition that needs to be managed for the long term. Some people can control their symptoms by managing their stress levels, lifestyle, and most importantly, their diet. Severe symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be treated with medication and counseling.

Gas in Your Abdomen

Excess gas in your stomach is usually caused by the foods you eat. The digestive system can create gas when the bacteria in your large intestine is involved in the digestion process. Undigested food from the small intestine combines with bacteria in the large intestine making carbon dioxide, hydrogen, and methane. Too much gas in your abdomen can cause pain and discomfort because of the amount of pressure it exerts in your intestines. Swallowing air when you eat and drink also makes up gas that can then be released through burping or flatulence. You can also use over-the-counter medications such as antacids, probiotics, or lactase products if you have lactose intolerance.

Crohn’s Disease

Crohn’s disease is a type of chronic inflammatory illness that affects the digestive system causing abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, and weight loss. The inflammation can spread to the deeper layers of the affected bowel tissue and may affect different parts of the digestive tract. The symptoms caused by Crohn’s disease can be painful, debilitating and can lead to life-threatening complications. While doctors are still on the search for a cure, the signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease can still be reduced by therapies and other medical treatments.

Treatment Options for Abdominal Pain

Pain caused by obstruction of the upper small intestine and obstruction of the stomach may be relieved temporarily by vomiting to reduce the distention caused by the blockage. Antacids may relieve heartburns and ulcer pain from duodenum as they neutralize the acid responsible for causing the pain. A laxative or mild stool softener can help with constipation and reduce gas pain. Some home remedies for abdominal pain include avoiding foods you are allergic to, chewing food slowly, eating a healthy diet, and easing stress with regular exercises or meditation.

Eating healthy and avoiding foods that cause an allergy can reduce your chances of suffering from abdominal pain. Observing hygiene and incorporating good eating habits in your lifestyle prevents you from contracting bacterial, viral or parasitic infections. It is important to contact your doctor if you are experiencing severe abdominal pain that is persistent or keeps coming back.

Which Tests Are Done In a DOT Physical?

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 15:42:51 GMT

Which Tests Are Done In a DOT Physical?

Driving commercial vehicles, especially trucks and trailers, involves a lot of stress and tiredness from the long hours of working. This being the case, there is a need for such drivers to be in the best physical fitness possible. This is the reason the department of transportation, DOT, requires that you undergo a few tests for you to be termed fit to operate commercial vehicles. They are aimed at ensuring that you are in the right physical condition so that you and other road users are safe. This article looks at the different tests done in a DOT physical.

Vision Test

The eyes direct and determine your trajectory on the road, hence the need for them to be in good condition. The two eyes are tested for optimal fitness. The DOT requires that each of your eyes should have acuity of 20/40 and a 70” peripheral in the horizontal meridian. To determine these, you may be asked to identify letters or numbers written on a signboard. To make work easier and have the possibility of passing this test, be sure to carry your glasses.

Hearing Test

Since you are supposed to be alert and listen to what is going on the road at all times, there is a need to ascertain that your ears can perform this task. During the test, the physician may ask you to identify some spoken phrases or numbers from a distance of approximately 5ft from him. For you to pass this test, you are required to identify details of a forced whisper from a distance, without the aid of a hearing device. The ear being tested should be facing the examiner, while the other ear should be covered. To make work easier during this test, carry your hearing aid devices or medication.

Urinalysis

If they went unnoticed, conditions like diabetes could become very detrimental for drivers on the road. This is because diabetes can cause blurred vision and migraines, both of which place you at the risk of accidents. That is why the DOT requires all commercial vehicle drivers to take this test. During the test, you are asked to submit samples of your urine in a bottle and the physician tests it for sugar levels. Most drivers panic when testing for urine since this might tell if they have previously been drinking or taking drugs. The test is not meant for drugs and alcohol, although some employers may demand the test reveal drugs and alcohol use. To speed up the process, carry your blood sugar log and test documents.

Blood Pressure/Pulse Rate

The DOT makes this test mandatory to measure your blood pressure and check for irregular heartbeats. This is because an underlying cause of high blood pressure or irregular heartbeats can place you at the risk of a heart attack or breathing difficulty while on the road. This is very grievous because you can cause an accident and hurt yourself and other road users.

Physical Examination

This test aims at determining the general physical health of your body. An appointed physician licensed by the DOT performs it. During the test, the physician may check your general appearance. This may include the ears for deformities, the eyes for glaucoma, the spine for injuries, the abdomen among many others. This test is aimed at telling if you have any underlying physical issue that would interfere with your wellbeing. To make the test faster and easier, you should carry your medical history with you.

Hernia Test

This is the most uncomfortable test since it feels and looks weird. It involves the physician placing their hand on your pelvic area while you are asked to turn your head and cough. The test is aimed at determining if you have abdomen, viscera and genitourinary systems issues. This is because if any of these issues cause discomfort in the hernia, this may place your life and that of other people at the risk of accident. Since no one likes this awkward moment, you can make the procedure faster and simpler by producing your medical history or recent test documents.

Most drivers make a mistake of taking these tests for granted until pushed by the DOT. What they do not know is that the tests are aimed at protecting them and the public from accidents. Knowing this, you should from now on take it upon yourself to make the process smooth and faster as much as possible. In case you fail the tests, do not panic as you can appeal to be placed under a reduced clearance period.