Recent Blog Posts

Tick bites can be unsettling– especially if you’ve recently spent time outdoors in wooded or grassy areas. If you’ve found a tick on your skin and removed it, you may be wondering if it’s normal for the area to itch afterward. The short answer is yes– mild itching is common after a tick bite. Just like with mosquito or other insect bites, your body reacts to the tick’s saliva, which can ...

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Back pain is one of the most common health complaints among adults, but not all back pain is constant. For many people, the discomfort flares up, eases, and returns again without warning. If your back pain comes and goes, it may leave you wondering what’s triggering it and whether you should be concerned. Intermittent back pain can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from everyday strain to underlying medical issues. Below are ...

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When most people think of allergies, symptoms like sneezing, itchy eyes, or nasal congestion usually come to mind. But for some, allergic reactions can show up in less common ways– like feeling nauseous. If you’ve ever wondered whether your allergies could be causing an upset stomach, the short answer is yes. In some cases, seasonal allergies can lead to nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explore what you need to ...

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A sinus infection, also known as sinusitis, can come with a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including nasal congestion, facial pressure, and headache. But one symptom that tends to linger longer than the rest is a persistent cough. If you’ve found yourself coughing for days or even weeks after your other sinus symptoms have eased, you’re not alone. A sinus infection related cough is common, and knowing how to manage it can help speed ...

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Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, are commonly associated with sneezing, nasal congestion, and itchy eyes. However, some people also experience unexpected symptoms like dizziness or lightheadedness. If you’ve ever felt off-balance or woozy during allergy season, you may wonder if your allergies are to blame. The short answer is yes– seasonal allergies can contribute to lightheadedness in several ways. Continue reading to learn more! For same-day seasonal allergy relief ...

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Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that can lead to severe complications. Fortunately, the measles vaccine provides strong protection against the virus, significantly reducing the risk of outbreaks. But who should get vaccinated, and when? In this blog, we’ll provide everything you need to know about measles vaccination guidelines so you and your loved ones can stay safe and healthy all year long. For walk-in vaccinations, including MMR, visit AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth ...

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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. Check-In Online 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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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. Check-In Online 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. Check-In Online 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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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common viral infection that primarily affects young children, often causing cold-like symptoms. While most cases are mild, RSV can lead to more severe respiratory issues, especially in infants and children with weakened immune systems. One of the most common concerning symptoms for parents is fever. But how long does an RSV-related fever last in children? In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at this symptom and explain ...

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Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that affects millions of people each year. While symptoms like fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue are well-known, some people may also experience dizziness. If you’ve ever felt lightheaded or unsteady while battling the flu, you may be wondering– can the flu cause dizziness? The answer is yes, and there are several reasons why this happens. In this blog, we’ll explore ...

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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. Check-In Online 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. Check-In Online 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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Stomach pain after eating can be a cause for concern, especially if it happens frequently. Learn more about treating frequent and occasional stomach pain. Check-In Online 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. Check-In Online 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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Norovirus, often referred to as the “stomach bug,” is notorious for causing outbreaks of vomiting and diarrhea. Highly contagious, this condition spreads quickly in crowded environments like schools and workplaces. A key factor in its rapid transmission is the virus’s ability to survive on surfaces, making it essential to understand how long norovirus can linger and how to prevent its spread. In this blog, we’ll explore how norovirus spreads and what you can ...

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Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a respiratory virus that commonly affects people of all ages but is particularly impactful on young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems. First discovered in 2001, HMPV has likely been circulating for decades and is closely related to the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). While its symptoms often resemble those of other respiratory infections, understanding HMPV and how it spreads is key to preventing and managing it effectively. For ...

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