Recent Blog Posts

As the temperatures begin to rise with each passing day, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with too much heat exposure. Heat exhaustion is a condition that occurs when the body overheats. At AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth, we encourage all patients to be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion so you can get the treatment you need, when you need it. For same-day urgent care service, visit the walk-in clinic ...

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Physical for sports exams, also known as pre-participation physical examinations (PPEs), help determine whether a person is physically fit to participate in organized sports activities. This physical exam aims to identify any possible medical conditions that could put the athlete at risk for severe injury or illness during practice or competition. Sports physicals are typically done annually, though some states may require more frequent exams based on age and the type of sport being played ...

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Poison ivy causes an allergic reaction in many people who come in close contact with the plant. It’s found throughout the United States and can be difficult to identify as it grows in various forms– not just the three, red leaves we have been warned to avoid. When a poison ivy rash occurs, the symptoms can be uncomfortable and irritating. So what’s the fastest way to cure the rash? This blog will explore ...

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Sinus infections, also known as sinusitis, are a common condition that can cause a wide range of uncomfortable symptoms. While the symptoms of sinusitis typically include nasal congestion and facial pain, some people may experience some impact to their hearing. So, can sinus infections really cause hearing loss? This blog will explore the answer to that question and explain how to recognize sinus infections and when to seek treatment. For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit ...

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While it is possible to develop lower back and leg pain from COVID, there are also several other causes. As experts in urgent healthcare services, AFC in Elizabeth indicates why you might be experiencing back pain after COVID and explains some other reasons you might have lower back pain.    Lower Back and Leg Pain from COVID Lower back pain is a possible symptom of COVID-19. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, given ...

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So, what is mono, and what are the symptoms? American Family Care in Elizabeth has answers, and treatment, for you.  Mononucleosis (mono) is an infectious viral disease most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), but other viruses can also cause it. Also sometimes known as the “kissing disease,” mono is spread through saliva and can even be passed from person to person from sharing cutlery and utensils. According to the CDC, mono occurs mainly ...

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The healthcare industry has evolved to include telehealth urgent care, an innovative technology that has made it easier for people worldwide to access healthcare virtually.  This medical service offers faster urgent care visits through virtual appointments, providing services from physical exams to diagnostics, which allows healthcare providers to connect with patients remotely, providing care, support, and information from a distance. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility or transportation issues, with busy schedules ...

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Spring is right around the corner, meaning seasonal allergies may start to peak for many of us. While seasonal allergies can happen at any point of the year, most people experience symptoms during the spring when exposure to pollen is high. It’s important to be aware of your risk to allergy triggers and seek medical care when necessary. This blog will provide answers to frequently asked questions about spring allergies, like how to avoid ...

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Urinary tract infections, typically referred to as UTIs, are a common condition that can affect people of all ages and genders. If left untreated, UTIs can cause painful and uncomfortable symptoms. Fortunately, there are treatments effective at clearing the infection quickly. This blog will explore the causes and symptoms of UTIs, how long the infection generally lasts, and what methods of treatment are available. For convenient urinary tract infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at ...

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Urgent care providers offer convenient, time-saving alternatives to visiting an emergency room for minor, non-life-threatening medical conditions. These healthcare centers typically have shorter wait times and offer services like X-rays, urgent treatment of colds and flu, sprains, strains, and fractures, on-site lab tests, and physicals. Urgent care centers provide efficient diagnoses of various health problems, ranging from minor to severe. Some are also equipped with on-site lab testing capabilities so that patients can get results ...

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A sinus infection, or sinusitis, is a frustrating ailment that causes a runny nose, congestion, swollen and/or itching eyes, a sore throat, headaches, and other symptoms. While there isn’t necessarily a quick sinus infection cure, there are certainly ways that you can ease your discomfort and speed up your recovery.  If you’re suffering from sinusitis, know that you aren’t alone; approximately 90% of patients with colds have an element of viral ...

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Local urgent care centers in Elizabeth, or family walk-in clinics, offer patients convenient and affordable urgent healthcare services. When you visit a family walk-in clinic, you can expect quick, quality care at a fraction of the cost of your local emergency room.  Emergency rooms tend to be very busy and crowded and are associated with longer waiting times and higher fees. By going to a walk-in doctor’s office for a non-life-threatening illness or injury ...

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A sprained ankle is a very common injury that affects many athletes. Sprained ankles occur when the ligaments that support an ankle are torn or stretched, resulting in a moderate amount of pain and swelling. While this injury happens frequently in sports, it's possible to sprain your ankle during any sudden fall, twist, or impact in everyday activities. This blog will explore the recovery time of a sprained ankle and outline how soon athletes ...

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Coughing is a common symptom of many respiratory infections and various conditions, including bronchitis and pneumonia. Oftentimes, coughs can linger after the initial illness has subsided. It’s important to be aware of the various underlying health conditions that cause a persistent cough in order to know when medical care is necessary.  For same-day cough treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth. One of our board-certified medical providers can diagnose your condition ...

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What is an urgent care clinic? And how does it differ from the emergency room? When should you go to the emergency room, and when should you go to an urgent care center? Whatever questions you may have, AFC has the answers.    What Is An Urgent Care Clinic? Urgent care is the level of healthcare that lies between your primary care physician (PCP) and the emergency room. When you go to urgent care, you can ...

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Ear infections, also known as otitis media, are a very common ailment among young children and toddlers. As a parent, you may be worried when your little one shows signs of irritability. However, with the right knowledge and information, you can have peace of mind when it comes to ear infection symptoms in toddlers and better understand how to manage the condition effectively.  The walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth provides pediatric urgent care ...

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This winter, you might be experiencing persistent back pain. Pain in the back can be caused by a multitude of reasons, including the cold weather, lack of physical activity, and shoveling snow. Back injuries can be increasingly difficult to treat during the winter months. This blog will explore a few steps you can take to help manage existing back pain and when to seek medical care for proper treatment. The walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent ...

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Flu shots are an important part of maintaining your overall health and wellness throughout the year. Although, like any medication, they can have side effects. While most of these side effects are mild and don’t last long, it’s important to be aware of them in case of an allergic reaction. It’s important to note the side effects of a flu shot are in no comparison to the symptoms of influenza. At AFC ...

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Frostbite is a serious condition that occurs when skin is exposed to extreme cold. It is caused by prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures and can cause permanent damage to the affected area. It’s important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of frostbite, in order to better understand when and how to seek medical attention. The effects of frostbite can range from mild to severe and the duration of the condition ...

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Cold and flu season is officially upon us… which means a lot of sick days and urgent care visits for many. During the winter months, there are many viruses that spread in our communities that can cause similar symptoms, including congestion, cough, and fever. With all of the similar symptoms, it’s difficult to diagnose illnesses on your own. Visit AFC Urgent Care Elizabeth to have your symptoms accurately diagnosed and receive comprehensive treatment from ...

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