What illnesses & injuries should you look out for this fall? Here’s our guide to common seasonal medical conditions. AFC offers same-day care! 

As summer fades and cooler air rolls into Mooresville, many locals are eager to dive into fall festivities, whether it’s cheering at a high school football game, taking a scenic drive to see the leaves change, or visiting Carrigan Farms for pumpkin and apple picking (and maybe even a hayride). 

Autumn brings plenty of charm, but it also comes with its own set of seasonal injuries and illnesses. Between weekend yard cleanups, campfires and allergy season, it’s easy for small health concerns to creep up on you. 

To help you stay safe and healthy this fall, here are five common conditions we often see at AFC Mooresville, plus a few tips to help you avoid them. 

Visit AFC Mooresville today! 

1. Shoulder and Knee Injuries

Shoulder and knee injuries are some of the most common issues we treat once the temperatures drop. Whether you’re washing windows, hauling firewood, cleaning or replacing your HVAC filters, repetitive or strenuous movements can lead to sprains, strains or tendonitis. 

Your shoulders are responsible for most of your arm’s range of motion, while your knees bear much of your body weight, so even a mild injury can slow you down. 

Tips to help prevent injury: 

• Warm up and stretch before jumping into physical activity. 
• Pace yourself, don’t push through pain or fatigue. 
• Take breaks if you feel discomfort in your joints or muscles. 

If pain persists or swelling sets in, it’s important to seek care. AFC Mooresville offers on-site digital X-rays and experienced medical providers who can assess your injury and recommend the right treatment plan, so you can get back to your favorite activities faster. 

2. Bonfire and Campfire Burns

There’s nothing quite like sitting around a fire on a crisp fall evening, roasting marshmallows and catching up with friends. But with all the outdoor fires this season, we also see an uptick in minor burns and eye injuries. 

Most campfire burns happen because of windy conditions, using unsafe materials or getting too close to hidden embers. 

Keep these fire safety tips in mind: 

• Always use untreated, dry wood – never flammable liquids or trash. 
• Keep a bucket of water or fire extinguisher nearby. 
• Make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the area. 
• Avoid loose clothing that could catch sparks. 

Our team can treat minor burns and provide wound care to reduce the risk of infection. If a burn is severe or covers a large area, head to the nearest emergency room immediately. 

3. Seasonal Allergies

If you thought allergy season ended with summer, think again. In the Mooresville area, fall allergens like ragweed, mold spores from damp leaves and dust from heating systems can trigger allergy symptoms well into November. 

Common symptoms of fall allergies include: 

• Sneezing and nasal congestion.
• Itchy or watery eyes.
• Coughing or scratchy throat.
• Sinus pressure or headaches.

To help manage fall allergies: 

• Limit outdoor time when pollen counts are high. 
• Shower and change clothes after spending time outside. 
• Keep windows closed to prevent allergens from getting inside. 
• Consider using an air purifier with a HEPA filter. 
• Use over-the-counter allergy medications or nasal sprays as needed. 

If your allergies are affecting your daily life, AFC Mooresville offers personalized allergy care and same-day care to help you breathe easier this season. 

4. Car Accident Injuries

Fall in North Carolina means foggy mornings, early sunsets and wet leaves on the roads, all of which can create hazardous driving conditions. Add in an increase in deer activity, and it’s no surprise that minor car accidents are common this time of year. 

Even small fender-benders can result in lingering pain, such as whiplash, muscle strains or bruising. 

Drive safer this fall by: 

• Reducing speed on wet or leaf-covered roads. 
• Keeping your windshield clean and headlights clear. 
• Ensuring your tires and brakes are in good condition. 

If you’ve been in a minor accident and are feeling sore or stiff afterward, our medical team can evaluate you for hidden injuries and help you recover safely. 

5. Cuts and Lacerations

From carving pumpkins to tackling DIY home projects, cuts and lacerations are another frequent reason patients visit our urgent care in the fall. While small cuts might seem harmless, they can easily become infected if not cleaned properly. 

Here’s how to prevent and treat cuts: 

• Always use sharp, clean tools (dull blades are more likely to slip). 
• Wear protective gloves when working with sharp objects. 
• Supervise children during pumpkin carving or crafting time. 
• If a cut is deep, bleeding heavily or looks infected, seek professional care right away. 

At AFC Mooresville, we provide on-site wound care, including cleaning and bandaging. However, if a cut is too deep or bleeding it’s recommended that you head over to the ER. 

Stay Healthy This Fall 

Here at AFC Mooresville, we love fall just as much as you do and we’re here to help you enjoy it safely. Our clinic offers walk-in care for a wide range of injuries and illnesses, from joint pain and burns to allergies and cuts. 

No appointment is needed, just walk in when you need us. Whether you’re dealing with a sprained knee, a pesky cough or a stubborn rash, our team is ready to get you back to feeling your best. 

Stay safe, stay healthy and enjoy every minute of Mooresville’s beautiful fall season!