Recent Blog Posts

Feeling Feverish? How AFC Hickory Can Help Identify the Cause

Not sure if your sudden fever is from the flu or another virus? Learn the symptoms, differences, and when to visit AFC Hickory. If a fever comes on suddenly after a weekend of activities or time spent around others in the Hickory area, it may be hard to know what’s causing it. Understanding the difference between flu and other viruses can guide next steps.  At AFC Hickory, we focus on family-centered care and clear ...

Read more..

Feeling Sick? How to Tell if It’s COVID or Allergies

Learn how to tell the difference between COVID and seasonal allergies. Get tips, symptom guidance, and care at AFC Hickory. If you experience congestion or fatigue after a stroll along the Tennessee Riverwalk or visiting a nearby playground, you may question whether it’s seasonal allergies or COVID-19. Identifying your symptoms promptly can make a big difference in managing your health safely. At AFC Hickory, our providers help patients navigate symptoms with expert assessment, testing ...

Read more..

What Causes Lung Burning and Chest Irritation?

A burning sensation in your lungs can signal infection, irritation, or another condition. Learn possible causes and when AFC Hickory can help. A sharp or uncomfortable sensation in your chest when you breathe can quickly raise concerns, especially if it interferes with daily activities or does not improve. Lung discomfort can stem from a range of conditions, some mild and others requiring prompt attention. At AFC Hickory, our team is here to help evaluate your ...

Read more..

Dry Skin Explained by AFC Hickory

Persistent dry skin can be uncomfortable and may signal underlying conditions. Learn common causes, symptoms, and when to visit AFC Hickory. Dry skin can feel especially tight and uncomfortable during seasonal changes in the Hickory area. Even with regular moisturizing, your skin may feel flaky or irritated after exposure to cold air or frequent washing. Understanding what may be contributing to dry skin helps you care for it more effectively.  At AFC Hickory, we help ...

Read more..

Food Sickness: How to Know When to Visit AFC Hickory

Experiencing stomach pain, diarrhea, or nausea? Learn the signs of food sickness and when AFC Hickory can help. After holiday parties and big family meals, feeling sick to your stomach can leave you wondering if it was something you ate or just a passing stomach bug. Many people experience nausea, vomiting, cramps, or diarrhea soon after heavy meals or foods that did not sit well. Understanding the signs of food sickness and when to seek ...

Read more..

Understanding Elbow Injuries: Sprains, Fractures, and Care

Learn the signs of a broken elbow, when to seek urgent care, and what to expect during diagnosis and treatment at AFC Hickory. A sudden elbow injury, whether from a fall, sports activity, or awkward movement, can leave you wondering if it’s broken or something less serious. Pain and swelling around the elbow can feel alarming and make everyday tasks difficult. Understanding when an injury may be a fracture versus a sprain or strain ...

Read more..

Should You Get Tested for an STD? Signs and Guidance

STD testing is fast, confidential, and convenient at urgent care. Learn what to expect, when to get tested, and how AFC Hickory can help. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are common among people of all ages and can sometimes occur without noticeable symptoms. Routine screening and early detection are essential for protecting your long-term health and the health of your partners. Understanding when to get tested and what the ...

Read more..

Feeling Feverish? How AFC Hickory Can Help Identify the Cause

Not sure if your sudden fever is from the flu or another virus? Learn the symptoms, differences, and when to visit AFC Hickory. If a fever comes on suddenly after a weekend of activities or time spent around others in the Hickory area, it may be hard to know what’s causing it. Understanding the difference between flu and other viruses can guide next steps.  At AFC Hickory, we focus on family-centered care and clear ...

Read more..

Dry Skin Explained by AFC Hickory

Persistent dry skin can be uncomfortable and may signal underlying conditions. Learn common causes, symptoms, and when to visit AFC Hickory. Dry skin can feel especially tight and uncomfortable during seasonal changes in the Hickory area. Even with regular moisturizing, your skin may feel flaky or irritated after exposure to cold air or frequent washing. Understanding what may be contributing to dry skin helps you care for it more effectively.  At AFC Hickory, we help ...

Read more..

What Causes Lung Burning and Chest Irritation?

A burning sensation in your lungs can signal infection, irritation, or another condition. Learn possible causes and when AFC Hickory can help. A sharp or uncomfortable sensation in your chest when you breathe can quickly raise concerns, especially if it interferes with daily activities or does not improve. Lung discomfort can stem from a range of conditions, some mild and others requiring prompt attention. At AFC Hickory, our team is here to help evaluate your ...

Read more..

Food Sickness: How to Know When to Visit AFC Hickory

Experiencing stomach pain, diarrhea, or nausea? Learn the signs of food sickness and when AFC Hickory can help. After holiday parties and big family meals, feeling sick to your stomach can leave you wondering if it was something you ate or just a passing stomach bug. Many people experience nausea, vomiting, cramps, or diarrhea soon after heavy meals or foods that did not sit well. Understanding the signs of food sickness and when to seek ...

Read more..

How to Protect Your Skin From Plant Related Rashes

Outdoor activities can expose you to plants like poison ivy, oak, and sumac that cause itchy rashes. Learn how to identify, prevent, and treat plant-related rashes with tips from AFC Urgent Care Hickory. Spending time outdoors is one of the best parts of North Carolina. Hiking, camping, and gardening can be relaxing and fun, but they also come with a hidden risk: plant-related rashes. Many common plants contain oils or chemicals that can irritate your ...

Read more..

How to Prevent Travel Sickness and Stay Healthy on the Road

Stay healthy while you travel. Learn how to prevent sickness with AFC Urgent Care Hickory and book your visit today to prepare for a safe, stress-free trip. Whether you are flying out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport or planning a road trip through North Carolina, taking steps to protect your health before you travel can make all the difference. Traveling is exciting, but exposure to new environments, climates, and germs can also increase your chances ...

Read more..

Should You Get Tested for an STD? Signs and Guidance

STD testing is fast, confidential, and convenient at urgent care. Learn what to expect, when to get tested, and how AFC Hickory can help. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are common among people of all ages and can sometimes occur without noticeable symptoms. Routine screening and early detection are essential for protecting your long-term health and the health of your partners. Understanding when to get tested and what the ...

Read more..

Signs Your Sunburn Needs Medical Attention

Is your sunburn blistering or painful to the touch? It might be time to check into our urgent care in Hickory. No appointments necessary!  Summer in Hickory means kayaking and canoeing at Rotary-Geitner Park, baseball games at L.P. Frans Stadium, and long walks on the Hickory Trail. But with all that sun comes one of the season’s most common health complaints: the dreaded sunburn.  Most of the time, sunburns are a mild inconvenience ...

Read more..

Helping Hickory, NC Families Prepare Kids for Urgent Care Visits

Help your child feel calm and confident during an urgent care visit at AFC Hickory with simple preparation tips and guidance. If your child becomes ill while you’re out shopping at Valley Hills Mall or sprains an ankle at Geitner Park, you may need urgent medical attention sooner than planned. While getting quick medical attention is important, many children feel nervous or uneasy during clinic visits. A little reassurance and preparation can make the ...

Read more..

How to Help My Child Feel Less Nervous when Visiting AFC Hickory

Spending a sunny afternoon at the Hickory Community Center or enjoying a playful morning at the nearby playground often brings joy and laughter for children and families. Yet, sometimes that carefree day can take an unexpected turn when a child feels unwell or gets injured. For many parents, the thought of taking their child to urgent care can bring worry and stress, especially if the child feels nervous or scared. At AFC Hickory, we understand ...

Read more..

ER vs. Urgent Care: What You Need to Know

It’s a sunny weekend afternoon, and your family is enjoying a day at the park. In the middle of a game of catch at Civitan Park, someone slips and twists their ankle. The swelling starts right away, and the pain looks serious. You’re left asking yourself, “Should we go to the emergency room or is urgent care the better choice?” This is a question many families face, especially when sudden injuries or illnesses ...

Read more..

Should You Say STI or STD? Understanding the Difference and Why It Matters

You’ve probably debated whether to call it an STI or an STD while enjoying a sweet cone from Carolina Crafted Creamery. While it may seem like a small distinction, understanding the difference between these terms is important, especially when it comes to your sexual health. If you’re confused about whether to use STI (sexually transmitted infection) or STD (sexually transmitted disease), you’re not alone. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they ...

Read more..

From Virtual Consults to Clinic Visits: Understanding Your Healthcare Options

In a world where convenience is key, navigating your healthcare options can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you’re grabbing lunch at a local favorite like The Crossing at Hollar Mill or just enjoying a day at home, health concerns can strike at any time. So, what do you do when you need medical attention? Do you opt for a virtual consult from your phone, or is an in-person visit to a clinic the better choice ...

Read more..

Be the first to read...

More Blog Posts