As we say goodbye to summer, fall is here with a different set of illnesses & injuries to be aware of. Visit AFC for same-day treatment. 

Days spent swimming, kayaking and fishing may be coming to an end, but fall time in Dalton means campfires, farmers markets at Fiddleheads Garden Center and lots of hot apple cider. While you may not have to worry about sunburn and heat exhaustion, autumn brings a new set of illnesses and injuries to watch out for.  

AFC Dalton has curated a list of 5 common medical conditions we typically treat, especially in the fall – but don’t worry! We’ve also added our best advice on how to prevent and treat these illnesses and injuries. 

Visit AFC Dalton today! 

1. Sprains, Strains and Fractures 

With crisp fall air soon arriving, home improvement projects, yard work, hiking and fall sports begin to take over. Unsurprisingly, common injuries we see at AFC are sprains (ligament injuries), strains (muscle or tendon injuries) and fractures (a cracked or broken bone). Whether you’ve slipped on wet leaves, fallen while hiking or were raking leaves – extra stress on the muscle and joints can lead to these types of injuries. 

We recommend keeping walkways clear of leaves and other debris, always wearing supportive shoes when engaging in physical activity, and reducing stress on your muscles by using proper lifting techniques. And if you do suspect that you might have a sprain, strain or fracture, stop by AFC Dalton. No appointment is needed, we offer on-site digital X-rays every day of the week. 

2. Burns from Campfires and Bonfires 

Cooking a hotdog over the campfire or enjoying a tasty s’more? An increase in bonfires and campfires also means eye injuries and burns become more common. Autumn weather can be unpredictable sometimes. Combine those windy conditions, the wrong materials and hidden embers, and you have an urgent care visit waiting to happen. 

Practice fire safety by: 

• Burning non-treated wood. 
• Keeping a fire extinguisher or water source close by. 
• Ensuring the fire is completely out before leaving. 
• Choosing to wear clothes with a tighter fit (loose clothing could catch sparks). 

And remember, AFC is equipped to treat minor burns, but anything beyond that may require a trip to the emergency room. 

3. Bee and Wasp Stings 

Fall is when bees and wasps face two big problems: their food sources are dwindling, and their life cycles are nearing their end. A lack of food makes them desperate for other sources of sustenance, meaning that caramel apple or hot cocoa. While an impending death makes them more aggressive. Bees and wasps tend to attack without hesitation in autumn simply because they feel like it, or they want that sugar you’re eating. 

It’s difficult to prevent bee or wasp stings, but there are some ways you can reduce your risk. When outdoors, always be aware of your surroundings (especially when consuming sugary drinks or food) and avoid hanging around trash cans (bees and wasps can often be found there too).  

If you do happen to get stung, don’t panic! Monitor your symptoms and visit AFC Dalton if the pain is more than mild discomfort. Please keep in mind that extreme allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, should be given immediate medical attention at your nearest ER.  

4. Cuts and Lacerations 

Here at AFC, we see a lot of cuts and lacerations and the fall is no different. Maybe you were chopping firewood or carving pumpkins – either way, accidents happen. Minor cuts or lacerations can easily be treated at home but if a cut seems a little too deep or an infection starts to set in, walk into our urgent care clinic. 

Our prevention tips: 

• Choose the right tools for the job and always keep blades sharp. 
• Wear protective gloves when handling sharp objects. 
• Never leave children alone with sharp objects. 

5. Seasonal Allergies 

Autumn means those dreaded allergies are back. Here in northern Georgia, we deal with ragweed, mold from wet leaves and dust from heating systems that have finally been turned on. How can you tell if you’re dealing with allergies or a common cold? General symptoms include: 

• Sneezing 
• Itchy or red eyes 
• Nasal congestion 
• Coughing 
• In severe cases, allergies can lead to sinus infections 

Sadly, allergies can’t be avoided, but the symptoms can be managed or reduced. AFC suggestions: 

• Limit outdoor exposure (when the pollen count is high). 
• Remove pollen from your skin by showering and washing your hair (specifically after being outdoors). 
• Keep windows closed. 
• Limit indoor triggers by using a HEPA air filter. 
• Try over-the-counter medications such as antihistamines, decongestants or nasal sprays.  

If your allergies persist and you need long-lasting relief, visit AFC Dalton. Our providers can set you up with an allergy treatment plan that won’t interfere with your daily life.  

Live Life Uninterrupted This Fall 

The fall activities are endless here in Dalton, and we want you to enjoy every moment. AFC Dalton is here to treat your stings, sprains, sneezes and everything in between. We’re open seven days of the week and offer extended hours.  

Walk into our clinic today or save your spot ahead of time!