Recent Blog Posts

Itchy Throat Remedies: What Causes It & 6 Ways to Make it Stop

December 11, 2023

An itchy throat is a common symptom that can have a variety of causes. It can make daily living uncomfortable as it’s difficult to talk or swallow with an irritated throat. Explore itchy throat remedies that can help soothe symptoms from allergies or other itchy throat causes. Causes of an Itchy Throat A number of factors can cause an irritated throat. Allergies and viral infections are the most common. Some of the other common ...

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Common Symptoms of Sun Poisoning

December 11, 2023

Spending time in the sun is a great way to enjoy outdoor activities, but protecting yourself from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation is important. However, it’s essential to know the common signs and symptoms of sun poisoning and when to seek treatment. Whether you're planning a day at the beach, a hike in the mountains, or simply spending time in your own backyard, understanding the signs and risks of sun poisoning ...

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Heat Rash Symptoms and Treatment

December 8, 2023

In the sweltering heat of summer or during periods of intense physical activity, many of us have experienced the discomfort of heat rash symptoms. This common skin condition, also known as prickly heat or miliaria, can put a damper on our outdoor adventures and leave us itching and irritated. Understanding the symptoms and treatment options for heat rash is crucial to managing this condition and ensuring our skin stays healthy. Additionally, it’s essential to ...

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When to Take Your Child to Pediatric Urgent Care

December 8, 2023

As a parent, it can be difficult to know when your child's illness or injury requires urgent medical attention. Pediatric urgent care clinics are designed to provide immediate medical attention for children with non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries that require prompt treatment but are not severe enough to require a trip to the emergency room. These centers are designed to provide accessible care that is much more affordable than pediatrician or primary care physician visits ...

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Debunking Cold and Flu Season Myth

December 6, 2023

As the seasons change and the temperature drops, it's not uncommon to hear warnings about the arrival of cold and flu season. During this time, many people become more wary of their health and take extra precautions to avoid getting sick. However, amidst the heightened awareness, numerous myths and misconceptions about this season have been perpetuated over the years. American Family Care (AFC) debunks these myths and separates fact from fiction, enabling you to ...

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Embracing Winter Wellness

December 5, 2023

As winter descends on the Pacific Northwest, the region undergoes a transformation marked by misty landscapes and cool temperatures. While the season brings unique charm, it also ushers in health challenges that we Northwesterners must navigate. Staying well during the winter months involves a combination of mindful practices and adaptation to the conditions of our region. Below is a concise ‘guide’ to assist us as we transition through fall into winter. Nourishing Nutrition Fresh local ...

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Is Going to Urgent Care Like Going to the Emergency Room?

December 1, 2023

Urgent care centers offer fast, convenient medical care for non-emergency illnesses and injuries. They are open extended hours and provide a cost-effective alternative to the ER. They also bridge the gap between primary and specialty care, streamlining referrals and follow-up treatments.

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Giving Thanks This Thanksgiving

November 21, 2023

Gratitude’s Impact on Mental Health Beyond normal conversational niceties, expressing genuine gratitude profoundly influences mental health. Numerous studies consistently link regular gratitude to a significant reduction in stress and depression. It should also be noted that a grateful mindset extends beyond mere positivity; it represents a cognitive shift, reframing perceptions from a sense of lack to a sense of abundance. This shift not only increases general resilience but also fosters a sustained positive outlook ...

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3 Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes

November 16, 2023

As the Thanksgiving season approaches, many of us look forward to indulging in delicious meals and spending quality time with loved ones. While the traditional Thanksgiving feast often includes rich and calorie-laden dishes, it’s entirely possible to create a spread that is both indulgent and healthy. In this blog post, we’ll explore three mouthwatering recipes that not only celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving but also prioritize your health and well-being. 1. Roasted Brussels ...

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Can You Get Strep Without Tonsils?

November 14, 2023

Is getting strep without tonsils possible? Yes. Strep throat is caused by bacteria that can live in the nose and mouth, spread through saliva or contact with contaminated surfaces. Strep throat symptoms include sore throat, pain when swallowing, fever, red/swollen tonsils, and swollen lymph nodes. Tonsillitis and strep throat are different. Strep throat is caused by bacteria, while tonsillitis can be caused by bacteria or a virus. If you think you have tonsillitis or strep throat, visit an urgent care center for diagnosis and treatment.

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Here Are the Facts: Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?

November 10, 2023

Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, can sometimes develop into pneumonia if left untreated. This is more likely in individuals with weakened immune systems. Pneumonia is a lung infection with symptoms such as cough, chest pain, chills, and fever. Both conditions require medical attention, but treatments differ depending on the cause and severity.

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What Are the Degrees of Burns? A Guide to Identifying Burns

November 7, 2023

What Are the Degrees of Burns? A Guide to Identifying Burns So, what are the degrees of burns? If you’ve been wondering how to identify burns, we’ve got the answers for you. Burns are a common injury that can occur from various sources, including hot liquids, fire, chemicals, and sun exposure. Depending on the severity of the burn, it can range from a minor inconvenience to a life-threatening emergency. Therefore, it is crucial ...

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Overcoming Fall Time Sleep Debt

November 4, 2023

Daylight Saving Time (DST) is a practice that affects our daily routines by shifting the clocks forward or backward. This seemingly simple change can have profound consequences for our sleep patterns. Since sleep, and specifically adequate sleep, is such a vital part of overall health, it’s important to consider the notion of “ sleep debt” and the practical strategies for regaining quality slumber.  How DST Affects Sleep  DST causes disruptions in our internal body clock ...

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Movember: More than Facial Hair

November 3, 2023

What is No Shave November? Many people see No Shave November, also called Movember, as a way for men to grow out their facial hair. However, this global phenomenon, which has gained quite a large following in recent years, has significant meaning and an impact as part of a movement that goes far beyond just grooming facial hair.  No Shave November has raised millions of dollars over the years as the trend gets more and ...

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Importance of Health Centers

October 26, 2023

Student Health Care Centers: Vital for Campus Well-being  On campus healthcare centers and staff are becoming more and more prevalent in the US. While mostly accessible only to students, these college campus centers are often run in collaboration with broader urgent care facilities. The importance of these centers extends beyond the campus, impacting overall public health in several ways.  1. Immediate Care for Students Immediate care for students is one of a student health care ...

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Holiday Safety Tips

October 26, 2023

The holidays are almost upon us but not everyone approaches this time of year with joy and celebration. Some find the season stressful. Regardless of your point of view, when getting together with friends and family to celebrate, it’s good to remember some basics that can help us all avoid the colds and flu that are also common this time of year!  Hygiene and Handwashing  Practicing good hand hygiene is paramount. Encourage frequent handwashing ...

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National Flu Prevention Week

October 16, 2023

October 8th through the 15th is National Flu Prevention Week in the US. This week is observed annually to help raise awareness and bring attention to the importance of preventative medicine and vaccinations, especially during flu season. This week-long initiative aims to safeguard the wellbeing of individuals and communities across the nation and boost overall public health. History of National Flu Prevention Week  In the early 20th centuries, flu outbreaks happened fairly frequently and were ...

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Urgent Care Experts Offer Alternatives to Phenylephrine

October 7, 2023

As a prominent care provider of accessible primary care, urgent care, and occupational medicine services nationwide, American Family Care (AFC) is uniquely positioned to guide and educate the public on pertinent health issues, such as the FDA’s recent decisions on the effectiveness of oral phenylephrine.  The FDA held a Non-Prescription Drug Advisory Committee meeting on September 11-12, 2023, to deliberate on the effectiveness of oral phenylephrine as an active ingredient in over-the-counter (OTC) cough ...

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Why You Should See an Urgent Care Doctor for Wart Removal

October 2, 2023

Why You Should See an Urgent Care Doctor for Wart Removal Home remedies for warts might not be as effective as you hope, so we recommend seeing an urgent care doctor for wart removal to treat these pesky growths at their source. Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can appear almost anywhere on the body, causing both physical discomfort and self-consciousness. This article takes you through everything you need to know about ...

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Sports Physicals: Getting Ready to Go Back to School

September 10, 2023

Back-to-school sports physicals are vital for student athletes. They ensure health and meet requirements. Urgent care clinics offer quick, comprehensive exams with convenience and confidentiality. AFC provides affordable physicals, prioritizing your child's well-being.

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