Recent Blog Posts

Pertussis, commonly known as whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that is caused by the bacterium Bordetella pertussis. It primarily affects the respiratory tract, causing severe coughing fits. While vomiting is not generally considered a hallmark symptom of whooping cough, it can occur in some cases. In this blog, we’ll explain the most common symptoms of pertussis and when to seek medical attention. For same-day general illness treatment, visit the walk-in clinic ...

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The holiday season is here. Markets, malls and the streets are filled with the hustle and bustle of this festive season. It’s also a time when kitchens are very busy, with lots of preparation going on cooking various dishes. Unfortunately, this can sometimes lead to cooking mishaps resulting in burns or even the house catching on fire. For same-day injury care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care South Plainfield. Our board-certified medical ...

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A sinus infection is a common condition that occurs when there is a buildup of fluid in the sinus cavities, which leads to the growth of germs. This, in turn, causes inflammation and infection in the sinus cavities, resulting in discomfort and a range of unpleasant symptoms. Most common types of sinus infections are caused by viruses. If you have a sinus infection caused by a virus, there is a possibility that it can be ...

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Telehealth is a broad term for tech-enabled healthcare services, while telemedicine specifically refers to remote medical services via video or other technology. Telehealth aims to improve healthcare access by meeting people where they are, while telemedicine focuses on remote diagnosis and treatment. Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and improved access for vulnerable populations.

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Food poisoning symptoms range from mild to severe. While rest and hydration often help, urgent care is needed for persistent vomiting/diarrhea, severe pain, high fever, dehydration, or if you're in a high-risk group. Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications.

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There are nearly 3.4 million truck drivers in the United States, according to a 2020 survey by the American Trucking Associations. Most truck drivers must pass a Department of Transportation Physical (DOT Physical) to keep a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL). If you’re wondering what a DOT physical is, here’s what to expect during one. Understanding What a DOT Physical Is The U.S. Department of Transportation sets the DOT physical ...

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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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Are you wondering if you have genital herpes or a vaginal yeast infection? Learn the common signs of genital herpes vs. vaginal yeast infections so you know what to discuss with your doctor. What is Herpes? Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by two types of viruses — herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). In addition, there are genital and oral herpes. Unfortunately, both are chronic ...

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You’re at soccer practice for your son, and he trips and falls on his arm and is immediately in pain. While your first thought might not be, “How much is an x-ray?” there are a few things to consider when choosing where to go for treatment. Before you visit an ER for an x-ray, you may want to consider the cost. Here’s what ER x-rays cost vs. urgent care x-rays, including x-ray cost ...

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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, American Family Care 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 ...

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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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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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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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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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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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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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Our body has an excellent defense mechanism to fight illnesses and diseases. Our immune system acts as a shield to eradicate many different types of infections. In the winter, we’re at a higher risk for falling ill. These different illnesses can often cause a fever. The degree of fever varies in children and adults, and over-the-counter medicine may not be enough to fully treat the infection. In this blog, we’ll explain when it ...

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Winter is an enjoyable season because many occasions are lined up for celebration. However, getting sick is a significant risk during the winter months. As many different health conditions pose a risk for us during this time of year, it can be difficult to self-diagnose your symptoms. In this blog, we’ll explain the connection between cold weather and sore throats and outline when to seek medical care. Get same-day sore/strep throat treatment at ...

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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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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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