The act of breathing is one of the most basic things in life that most people don’t think about until it’s a problem. The severity of respiratory problems can vary from being slightly annoying to being extremely debilitating, significantly affecting the quality of life and health, and sometimes even leading to serious illness and/or emotional distress. At Absolute Urgent Care, we realize the importance of quick and effective treatment for such problems.
Common Respiratory Issues Treated in Urgent Care
Facilities that provide emergency care are equipped for all kinds of pulmonary complaints. Here are some of the most common respiratory issues we treat:
1. Asthma Exacerbations
Asthma is a chronic disease characterized by swollen and constricted airways. Exacerbations of asthma attacks might happen suddenly and require immediate attention. The signs are:
- Wheezing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Cough, particularly at night
2. Bronchitis
An inflammation of the bronchial tubes, which transfer air to and from the lungs, is what bronchitis is. It can be either acute (short term) or chronic (long term). Symptoms are:
- Persistent cough, often with mucus
- Fatigue
- Mild fever and chills
- Chest discomfort
3. Pneumonia
Pneumonia is the infection of air sacs in one or both lungs. The cause can occur through bacterial, viral, or fungal agents. Symptoms are:
- High fever
- Phlegm-producing cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain through breathing or coughing
4. Upper Respiratory Infections (URIs)
URIs include some of the most frequent illnesses such as the common cold, sinusitis, and pharyngitis. These viral infections primarily attack the nose, throat, and sinuses. Acute conditions are seen in:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Mild fever
5. Influenza (Flu)
The flu is a viral respiratory sickness caused by influenza virus victims saying that the symptoms they experience appear very quickly and are more intense compared to those caused by the typical flu. The symptoms are:
- High fever
- Severe body aches
- Fatigue
- Dry cough
6. COVID-19
The novel coronavirus has posed a substantial risk in the area of respiratory health. Would you like to get COVID Testing & Treatment? You need to talk to one of our team members for your symptoms. It is likely that:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
Diagnosis and Treatment at Absolute Urgent Care
When you approach Absolute Urgent Care to handle a respiratory problem, your examination will be thorough and treatment will be prompt. Generally, our approach includes:
1. Physical Examination
One of the healthcare professionals will listen to your lung sounds, take a look at your throat, and measure your general status.
2. Medical History
The health workers will enquire about the symptoms you have, when they started, and if there are any triggers for your condition getting worse. They will also take note of your medical history.
3. Diagnostic Tests
As per the symptoms you describe, we might conduct the following tests:
- Pulse oximetry to measure blood oxygen levels
- TM chest X-rays to check for pneumonia or some possible lung disorders
4. Treatment
Based on the diagnosis, treatment may include:
- Drug prescriptions such as antibiotics, antivirals, or inhaled medications
- Respiration accessories (nebulizer or inhaler)
- Supplemental oxygen, if required
- Information on home care and symptoms and the management of symptoms
When to Seek Urgent Care for Respiratory Issues
Even though one can manage some respiratory manifestations at home, other more severe cases need immediate medical attention. Consider visiting Absolute Urgent Care if you go through:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent high fever
- Cough that produces blood or thick, colored mucus
- Chest pain or pressure
- Symptoms that worsen or don’t improve with home treatment
Prevention and Self-Care for Respiratory Health
Good health of our respiratory system is an important part of being overall healthy. As such, how to take care of your lungs becomes very crucial. Here are some of the tips to keep your respiratory system in good health:
- Quitting smoke and not letting your body be subjected to passive smoking
- Exercising regularly to build up lung capacity
- Practicing good hygiene by regular hand washing
- Taking vaccinations, such as flu and pneumonia vaccines
- Once you know it, try to stay clear of polluted areas and always use a mask when necessary
- Fruit and vegetables should be the major constituents of a healthy meal
The Connection Between Pulmonary and Cardiovascular Health
The close relation between respiratory health and cardiovascular health should be remembered. The lungs and heart supply oxygen to the rest of the body through mutual cooperation, and disruptions in one organ may result in problems in the other. The situation can get complicated, however.
For instance, COPD can burden the heart, and heart failure may result in liquid accumulation in the lungs. At Absolute Urgent Care, we pay attention to the whole picture, that is to say, both pulmonary and cardiovascular matters in our examinations and treatments.
Special Considerations for Different Age Groups
Children
The young ages are the most vulnerable and are more at risk of respiratory diseases because of their immune systems that are yet to mature and their narrower airways. Group, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), Asthma are among the most common pediatric respiratory ailments:
- Group
- Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
- Asthma
Elderly
Elderly persons may be at greater risk of getting respiratory infections and may experience more intense symptoms. They should be especially careful about:
- Pneumonia
- COPD exacerbations
- Influenza complications
When to Consider Emergency Care
The majority of respiratory conditions that Absolute Urgent Care deals with do not necessitate emergency care, but some cases do doubtless. Visit the emergency room if you facing these symptoms:
- Severe shortness of breath or inability to breathe
- Blue lips or face
- Chest pain that spreads to the arm or jaw
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Coughing up large amounts of blood
Respiratory health is an essential part of the overall health of a person; thus, addressing issues on time can help prevent complications and ultimately improve the quality of life. Emergency care is not limited to the treatment of a few diseases alone; it is also used in the treatment of other health conditions such as cardiac and cancer problems. So if you have a cough, a difficult time breathing, or you’re worried about COVID-19, don’t hesitate to talk to our staff.
