Looking for ways to protect yourself & your family as the seasons change? Read AFC’s guide to preventing common fall illnesses & injuries. 

Before you head off to Flat Top Mountain Farm or Ocoee Valley Farms for some fall festival fun, there’s a few seasonal injuries and illnesses you should be aware of. You may not have to worry about swimmer’s ear or bug bites, but other medical conditions like seasonal allergies and bee stings are on the rise. Luckily, AFC Urgent Care is here for all of southeast Tennessee. Our clinics are close to nearby cities like Knoxville, Chattanooga and Cleveland.   

We get it, unexpected medical issues can be overwhelming. So, we’ve compiled a list of ways you can prevent common fall injuries and illnesses from sneaking up on you.   

Visit an AFC clinic in East Tennessee today!  

1. Sprains, Strains and Fractures  

Now that temperatures are finally dropping, it’s time to start some seasonal cleaning. Have you found yourself cleaning the gutters, raking leaves or starting a new home renovation project? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. These common activities also lead to common injuries like sprains, strains and fractures. Sometimes they can even occur after slipping or falling (another frequent incident in autumn). 

AFC suggestions: 

• Stretch and warm up your muscles before physical activity.  
• Practice proper lifting techniques.  
• Keep sidewalks and driveways clear of debris (including leaves).  
• Wear supportive footwear.  
• Use flashlights or other types of artificial light when walking outside at night.  

Sometimes even the best laid plans can go off course. If you think you may have a sprain, strain or fracture, don’t hesitate to visit our walk-in urgent care clinic. Our compassionate providers are here to help and can provide same-day digital X-rays.  

2. Campfire or Bonfire Burns 

The perfect way to top off a chilly evening under the stars is a cozy campfire. While this classic activity is a fall staple, playing with fire sometimes means you might get burned. Minor burns and injuries to your eyes are often caused by windy conditions, burning the wrong items or hidden embers.  

Here are AFC-approved fire safety tips: 

• Never burn treated wood or trash. 
• Always have a fire extinguisher or water source nearby. 
• Never leave a fire unattended and wait until it’s fully out before leaving. 
• Avoid wearing loose clothing that could catch a spark. 

Our clinics are designed as fast, convenient alternatives to emergency rooms. While we are capable of treating minor burns – severe, large or blistering burns should be treated at the ER.  

3. Bee and Wasp Stings 

In autumn, bees and wasps are often overlooked – but don’t let them fool you. As the temperature starts cooling down, bees and wasps face a drastic decline in their food sources and are nearing the end of their lifespans. They are more drawn to sugary foods like that hot apple cider you’re enjoying on your porch or that delectable donut from Duck Donuts. 

Stings cannot be prevented, but there are a few things you can do to reduce your chances of getting stung. 

• Keep food and drinks covered while outdoors. 
• Stay alert near trash cans (bees and wasps like to hang around these areas looking for sugar). 
• Use small amounts of cologne and perfume, specifically when outside. 

Always remember that severe allergic reactions such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or dizziness should be treated at the emergency room – skip urgent care. 

4. Cuts and Lacerations 

Cuts and lacerations are another common fall injury we treat. Often due to firewood cutting gone wrong or a pumpkin carving accident, minor cuts and lacerations are a part of autumn. Some cuts can be treated at home, but deep or infected ones should be seen by an AFC provider.  

Prevention tips: 

• Use the proper tool for the job and keep blades sharp. 
• Wear protective gear (specifically gloves) when handling sharp tools. 
• Always monitor children when sharp objects are involved. 

5. Seasonal Allergies 

Unfortunately, allergies are one of those things you have to watch out for all-year round. Southeast Tennessee’s geography lends itself to high pollen counts for a large majority of the year, creating severe allergies for a lot of residents. Whether it’s the ragweed, mold from damp leaves or dust from seasonal cleaning, allergies can run rampant in the fall. 

It’s hard to avoid them altogether, but here are some AFC recommendations for alleviating and managing the symptoms. 

• Limit your time outdoors when the pollen count is high. 
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outside. 
• Keep the pollen outdoors, by closing windows. 
• Use HEPA air filters to improve your air quality and reduce indoor triggers. 
• Try over-the-counter antihistamines or decongestants for relief. 

AFC offers personalized allergy treatments to anyone looking for longer-lasting relief or for those struggling with extreme allergies that aren’t fading.  

Care You Can Count On 

Southeast Tennessee is beautiful in the fall. From quiet nights spent in the Smokey Mountains to long drives around the Ocoee River, there’s fun for the whole family. That’s why injuries and illnesses shouldn’t stop you from enjoying everything the south has to offer.  

AFC clinics are walk-in urgent care clinics that provide high-quality care at affordable prices. Life shouldn’t stop for a little sprain, cough or sting. Stop by one of our clinics for compassionate care.