Recent Blog Posts

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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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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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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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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Navigating Similar Symptoms: Cold, Flu, Covid, or RSV - AFC Urgent Care Toms River Can Help

October 5, 2023

As the seasons change, so do the common illnesses that can affect us. It's not uncommon to experience symptoms that could be attributed to a cold, flu, Covid-19, or RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus). Understanding the differences and seeking prompt care is crucial. At AFC Urgent Care Toms River, located at 2360 Lakewood Road, Toms River, NJ, we're here to help you differentiate and provide expert care. Common Symptoms: Cold, Flu, Covid, and RSV ...

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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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Pain in the Lower Left Side of the Abdomen for Females: What Is it?

September 1, 2023

Pain in the lower left side of the abdomen in females can indicate unique problems related to women’s health. Learn more about what can cause pain and when to seek medical attention. Where is the pain coming from? There are many organs on the left side of the abdomen. When experiencing lower left side pain, it could be coming from one of these organs, according to the Cleveland Clinic: Small intestine Colon Appendix Ovaries ...

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Can the Flu Shot Make You Sick? Why the Stick Can Make You Feel Ick

August 15, 2023

From 2010 to 2022, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated there were 9.4 million to 41 million flu illnesses every year. But there is an easy way to protect yourself — the flu shot. Studies show that the severity of the flu is significantly less if you catch the flu but are vaccinated. The CDC says the flu vaccine reduces the risk of seeing a doctor for the flu by 40% to ...

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Can You Get an STD Without Having Sex?

August 11, 2023

If you have an STD but haven't been sexually active, you may have contracted it through sharing needles, tattoos/piercings, blood transfusions, or other means. Some STDs are asymptomatic but can lead to serious health consequences if left untreated. AFC urgent care clinics offer confidential STD testing and treatment.

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Can I Get IV Fluids at Urgent Care?

August 2, 2023

As we enter the high temperatures of August, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with dehydration. While dehydration can impose a concern on our overall well-being, intravenous (IV) fluids are an effective remedy to rehydrate our bodies quickly. If you’re experiencing dehydration symptoms, you might be wondering where to go to get dehydration treatment and IV fluids. In this blog, we’ll outline the causes and symptoms of dehydration and ...

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What Are The Side Effects of a Flu Shot?

August 2, 2023

As the flu season gradually approaches, it’s important to start thinking about flu vaccination. The flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you from influenza. The flu shot is a vital tool in preventing the spread of the virus and reducing the severity of symptoms if you do contract it. However, like many vaccinations, the flu vaccine may come with some side effects. In this blog, we'll ...

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Where Should I Go To Treat a Fractured Bone?

July 20, 2023

Accidents happen. Unfortunately, fractures are a common result of falls, sports injuries, or other events. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a fractured bone, it’s important to know where you can go to receive the appropriate medical care. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of a fracture and outline the different places to visit for care. For same-day injury diagnosis and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic ...

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When Does Poison Ivy Stop Itching?

July 19, 2023

If you’ve ever had a poison ivy rash before, you know the itch can feel endless. Poison ivy is a common poisonous plant that many of us may accidentally expose ourselves to in the summer. A brush with the plant can result in an incredibly itchy rash that leaves us searching for relief. In this blog, we’ll explore the stages of a poison ivy itch and outline ways you can alleviate your symptoms ...

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Hand Foot and Mouth Disease: What It Looks Like for Adults & Kids

July 2, 2023

What does hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) look like? The symptoms can look different for kids and adults. See what the symptoms can be and how to treat them. What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease? HFMD is a common viral illness caused by the enterovirus, most commonly the coxsackievirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease primarily affects children under 5, but anyone, including adults, can contract it. It’s typically a mild illness. The disease ...

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Do Sinus Infections Clear On Their Own?

June 21, 2023

Sinus infections, also called sinusitis, are a common infection of the sinuses that cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. When a sinus infection develops, you may be wondering if the symptoms will subside on their own or if medical treatment is necessary. In this blog, we’ll explore the causes and symptoms of sinus infections, and outline potential treatment regimens. For same-day sinus infection treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Toms River ...

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Is It Normal For Tick Bites To Itch?

June 21, 2023

This summer, it’s important to be aware of the presence of ticks in your area. Ticks are small insects that can transmit various diseases to us. When bitten by a tick, you’ll likely wonder about the symptoms and whether or not it’s normal for the affected area to itch. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons why a tick bite may itch and explain when it may be necessary to seek ...

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