When you have an unexpected injury or illness, you need to know where to turn. It’s hard to tell if you have a virus that will go away on its own or if it is something more sinister that requires long-term care and treatment. That’s why urgent care centers are popping up all over the place. Urgent care centers are like doctor’s offices, but they are usually more open on nights and weekends. They are often walk-in only, so you need to call ahead before heading out if your case requires follow-up or lab tests. This article looks at vital signs that you need to visit a Bellmawr urgent care center.
Have a Fever or Signs of a Flu
If you have a fever of 100 degrees or more, it’s time to get yourself checked out. In the same vein, if you have flu-like symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and body aches, then it might be a good idea to see a doctor. These may show that you have an infection that could turn into something much worse if you wait it out.
You Have a Persistent Cough
A cough can be an annoying symptom of a virus, but it’s also a side effect of bronchitis and pneumonia – both dangerous infections that need the doctor’s attention. Viruses resolve themselves over about seven days, but any respiratory infection needs to be treated with antibiotics. Coughing up blood is also a sign that you need to contract with the Bellmawr urgent care center.
You Have a Burn or Have Developed a Rush
Burns are the worst. Not only do they hurt, but they can also cause complications if you don’t get treatment right away. Even a simple sunburn should be seen by a medical professional immediately after it happens. Check yourself for signs of infection, like redness or pus, to make sure that your burn isn’t getting worse. A rush is another sign that you need to get medical attention right away. If you’ve ever had a problem with your blood pressure, then you know how delicate the circulatory system can be. A rush will have symptoms like dizziness and lightheadedness, so if it’s accompanied by a fever or heart palpitations, there’s no time to waste.
Any Sudden Loss of Vision or Hearing
Some vision loss is normal as you age, but sudden blindness could signify something more severe, like an embolism. These are often accompanied by other symptoms that would warrant a visit to the urgent care center, but always keep your eyes on this health problem if it pops up unexpectedly. Deafness is also a sign that something may be seriously wrong. You should always seek medical attention if you experience a sudden or unexpected loss of hearing for any reason.
In summary, urgent care centers act as doctor’s offices, but they are open nights and weekends. You may need to visit one if you have a cough that won’t go away, a fever, or signs of flu. They may also help if you have a rush or a burn or have suffered sudden vision or hearing loss.
