Recent Blog Posts

Here’s What Happens During a Physical for Sports Exam

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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Herpes vs. Yeast Infections: What’s What?

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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How Much is an X-Ray? Urgent Care X-Ray Cost vs. ER X-Ray Cost

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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Urgent Care vs Emergency Room: The Key Differences

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

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

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

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

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

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?

Is an Urgent Care Walk-In Clinic Like Going to the ER? If you find yourself with an emergency medical condition that needs to be dealt with, it can often become an overwhelming situation. Thoughts of long waits, expensive treatments, and procedures at a hospital emergency room (ER) may cross your mind. However, the ER isn't always your only option - have you ever considered visiting an urgent care walk-in clinic? Urgent care clinics like AFC ...

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How Long Does Fatigue From Mono Last?

Diseases and infections come in different forms and have various symptoms. But have you ever considered that your constant fatigue might be a symptom of a disease? One such transmissible disease is Mononucleosis. Mononucleosis, or Mono, is known for causing sore throat and fever but also comes with never-ending fatigue. But how long will the fatigue take to last? For that, you have to understand the causes, symptoms, and lasting duration.  For same-day mono testing ...

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Reasons To Get Your Flu Shot Before The Holidays

No one wants to spend the holidays under the weather. So, it’s important to get your flu shot before the festive season! The cold and flu season peaks between December and January, making influenza vaccination more important than ever. Flu shots not only protect yourself against the virus, but protect more vulnerable individuals who are prone to flu-related complications and hospitalization. Get a walk-in flu shot at AFC Urgent Care West Orange! We provide ...

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Can You Get Strep Without Tonsils?

Getting Strep Without Tonsils? Is It Possible? AFC West Orange NJ Has Answers for You Is getting strep without tonsils possible? The short answer is yes. Strep throat is caused by a particular strain of bacteria, group A Streptococcus. These bacteria can live in the nose and mouth.  The bacteria are spread through an infected person's saliva or mucus and contact with contaminated surfaces and objects. A person without tonsils can contract the infection if ...

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Here Are the Facts: Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?

Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?  Can bronchitis turn into pneumonia? In some cases, this happens when the inflammation of the bronchial tubes persists for some time and is not treated properly, leading to a bacterial or viral infection that can cause pneumonia.  When bronchitis becomes severe, the tiny hair-like structures (cilia) that line the bronchi can become damaged, making it difficult for mucus to clear from the lungs. This trapped mucus creates a breeding ground ...

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

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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When Does Strep Throat Become Contagious?

When you think about the inconvenience associated with strep throat, you become more concerned about determining if it is contagious. Understandably, many people are conversant with the symptoms of strep throat, but only a few can tell if it is communicable. Understanding the infectious nature of strep throat is essential for managing the infection effectively and preventing its spread to loved ones. This post will delve into the infectious period of strep throat, its symptoms ...

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Fall Wellness: 5 Tips for A Healthier You

As autumn approaches and the leaves change, it's the perfect time to rejuvenate your wellness routine. Fall brings cooler temperatures, vibrant foliage, and a fresh opportunity to prioritize your health. Whether you're aiming to boost your immune system or find ways to stay active as the days grow shorter, this blog will guide you through five essential tips for a healthier, more balanced you in the fall season. Embrace the crisp air and ...

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Urgent Care Experts Offer Alternatives to Phenylephrine

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

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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How Long Does RSV Last in Adults?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is commonly associated with infants and young children. However, it can also affect adults. When RSV strikes, it can lead to respiratory symptoms and discomfort. Read this article to understand the causes and symptoms of RSV in adults. It will also help you to explore the duration of RSV symptoms and how to diagnose and treat them. For same-day RSV testing and care, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care ...

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