Recent Blog Posts

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) and bladder infections are terms that are often used interchangeably– but are they really the same thing? While a bladder infection is a type of UTI, not all UTIs are limited to the bladder and the symptoms can vary depending on the location and severity of infection. In this blog, we’ll explain the relationship between UTIs and bladder infections, what symptoms they share, and when to seek medical treatment. For ...

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Swimmer’s ear is a common summertime condition, especially for those who spend a lot of time in the water. It usually causes itching, redness, and pain in the outer ear– but in some cases, it can lead to unexpected symptoms like dizziness or vertigo. So, can swimmer’s ear really affect your balance? In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between swimmer’s ear and vertigo, what causes this condition, and when it ...

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Postnasal drip occurs when excess mucus accumulates in the back of the throat, leading to discomfort and coughing. While it is often associated with minor conditions like allergies or sinus congestion, many wonder whether postnasal drip could signal a respiratory infection. Postnasal drip can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying disease, such as a cold, flu, or bacterial sinusitis. However, it is essential to differentiate between infections and other causes of postnasal drip to ...

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Allergies and pneumonia may seem unrelated at first, but in some cases, severe allergic reactions can lead to complications that mimic or contribute to pneumonia. While allergies primarily affect the respiratory system by causing symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and nasal congestion, they can trigger inflammation and increase infection vulnerability. This inflammation can progress in individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions or weakened immune systems, potentially leading to bacterial or viral lung infections. Understanding the link between ...

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As the seasons shift from winter to spring, warmer temperatures and blooming flowers bring a sense of renewal. However, this transition also introduces a surge in seasonal illnesses, such as allergies, colds, and the flu. Increased pollen levels trigger allergic reactions, while fluctuating temperatures can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections. Additionally, the spread of viruses remains a concern, especially in crowded public spaces. To stay healthy during spring, it's ...

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Sneezing is often associated with colds and allergies, but is it a symptom of the flu? While influenza primarily causes fever, body aches, chills, and fatigue, sneezing is not a hallmark symptom. However, some people with the flu may experience sneezing, especially in the early stages, as the virus affects the respiratory system. Understanding the difference between flu symptoms and those of other illnesses can help with proper diagnosis and treatment. For same-day symptom relief ...

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HFMD is often perceived as an illness that only impacts young children, but adults can get hand, foot, and mouth, too. Dispelling the myth that HFMD exclusively affects children is critical, especially since adults may not realize they're carrying the virus and could inadvertently spread it. Save Your Spot What Is Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease? HFMD is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects young children, typically those under the age of five. It ...

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A stuffy nose, facial pressure, and a lingering headache can make anyone feel miserable. But in today’s world, many people wonder– is it just a sinus infection or could it be COVID-19? Since both conditions share some overlapping symptoms, it can be difficult to tell them apart without proper testing. Understanding the key differences between a sinus infection and COVID-19 can help you determine the best course of action for treatment and when to ...

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A sore throat is a common complaint, often accompanying colds, flu, or allergies. But what if your throat hurts with no other symptoms? While a sore throat without other symptoms is not always a sign of something serious, it can still be uncomfortable and frustrating. In some cases, it may indicate an underlying condition that requires medical attention. In this blog, we’ll explore the possible causes of a sore throat with no other symptoms ...

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When your little one develops a fever, it's natural to worry and wonder, "How long do fevers last in infants?" Fevers are often the body's way of fighting infections by creating a less hospitable environment for germs. While fevers can seem concerning, they are usually not harmful and often resolve on their own. Save Your Spot Understanding How Long Fevers Last in Infants In most cases, fevers in infants last around two to three days ...

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Are sugar rushes real? For decades, many parents have believed in the idea of a “sugar rush,” a phenomenon where kids become hyperactive after consuming sugary snacks or drinks. This belief has led to widespread efforts to limit sugar intake, especially during times when parents want their children to stay calm and focused. Despite its popularity, scientific research shows that the so-called sugar rush is actually a myth. In this blog post, we'll explore ...

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Does menopause make you tired? Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years. While it’s often associated with hot flashes and mood swings, many women also experience persistent fatigue during this transition. Feeling tired or low on energy can be frustrating and disruptive, especially when combined with other menopause symptoms. Save Your Spot Understanding Menopause Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs when a woman’s ...

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You may wonder, "What is the best diet for irritable bowel syndrome?" The answer depends on your unique symptoms and needs, but several dietary strategies have been known to bring relief. Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that affects millions of people, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all cure for IBS, making thoughtful changes to your diet can play a significant role in ...

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A wrist sprain is painful and can worsen without proper care. Explore options for treatment and when to seek medical attention. Save Your Spot Table of Contents How To Tell if You Have a Sprained Wrist Severity of Sprained Wrists How To Treat a Sprained Wrist How To Heal a Sprained Wrist Fast Sprained Wrist Medical Devices Should I Go to the ER or Urgent Care? Activities to Avoid With a Sprained Wrist Visit AFC for Help ...

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If you get a deep cut, you may be able to treat it without stitches. Learn more about treating a deep cut. Save Your Spot Table of Contents What is Considered a Deep Cut? How Deep Does a Cut Need to Be for Stitches? Treatment Other Concerns to Keep in Mind Where To Go for Treatment What is Considered a Deep Cut? A deep laceration is generally considered over a quarter inch deep, but this also depends ...

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Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis. It leads to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and nausea. Because it spreads quickly, especially in crowded places, many people want to know how long this virus lasts. In this blog, we’ll explore the duration of a norovirus infection, its symptoms, and tips for managing and preventing it. For same-day norovirus treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Cedar Grove. Our urgent care center ...

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When most people think about dehydration, they likely picture a hot summer day, where you’re sweating and thirsty. However, dehydration isn’t limited to the warmer months. In fact, winter dehydration can be just as dangerous and might even lead to unexpected symptoms like dizziness. In this blog, we’ll explain how dehydration during the colder months happens, why it can cause dizziness, and tips to prevent it. For same-day dehydration treatment, visit the ...

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Stomach pain after eating can be a cause for concern, especially if it happens frequently. Learn more about treating frequent and occasional stomach pain. Save Your Spot Table of Contents Potential Causes and Treatments Upper Stomach vs. Lower Stomach Pain What To Do If Other Symptoms, like Diarrhea, Accompany the Stomach Pain What Do I Do If My Stomach Pain After Eating is Frequent? When Do I Need to See a Medical Provider? Potential Causes and Treatments ...

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Ear bleeding can be a sign of serious medical problems, especially if you’ve fallen or had head trauma. Explore potential ear bleeding causes and treatments. Save Your Spot Table of Contents Middle or Outer Ear Infection Head Trauma or Falling Torn or Ruptured Eardrum Foreign Object Barotrauma Other Infections Other Symptoms To Watch For When To Visit a Healthcare Provider Visit Your Local AFC Middle or Outer Ear Infection Infections in the ear, whether in the ...

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A lingering cough after a cold can be irritating and exhausting. Use these tips to get rid of your residual cough. Table of Contents What Causes a Lingering Cough How to Get Rid of a Chronic Cough Medications to Try When to See a Provider Visit Your Local AFC What Causes a Lingering Cough One of the most common causes of a chronic cough is a postnasal drip caused by allergies or a cold. Plus ...

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