Have you been feeling sick lately? With all of the illnesses surrounding us this year, it’s not surprising for you to have been sick once or twice already this season.

Getting sick can disrupt your busy life, so it is important to know what you have so you can seek the proper treatment and get back on track!

If you suspect an infection, it is important to be seen by a medical provider for an accurate diagnosis. Since they can be viral-based or bacterial-based, the treatment for each is different. Check out AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail’s latest blog about infections below.

Where Do Infections Come From?

If you have an infection, your body was exposed to a microbe or germ that settled into your body, multiplied, and caused a reaction. This reaction causes those unpleasant symptoms you experience! You can expect a sore throat, runny nose or fever.

Bacterial infections are due to bacterial exposure. Common diagnoses we see are strep throat and urinary tract infections (UTIs). Viral infections are caused by viruses—these include the common cold, the flu and chickenpox.

How Infections Spread

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Contact with contaminated surfaces
• Long-term contact with infected people

Will Antibiotics Help My Infection?

This is where we come in! Antibiotics work great against bacterial infections, but not viral ones. We can help diagnose what you are suffering from so we can either prescribe a round of antibiotics for you or we can discuss symptom management options for your viral infection.

If you are given a prescription for antibiotics, it is important that you take them in their entirety. Don’t stop just because you start to feel better! Stopping your medication early could encourage the bacteria to grow back. Whether your infection is bacterial or viral, rest and hydration are always helpful as your body works to overcome your illness.

Stay Infection-Free This Season

• Avoid people who are sick.
• Wash your hands with soap and water.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Stay up to date on your recommended vaccination schedule.

Are you feeling ill? Come see us at AFC Urgent Care Indian Trail for a diagnosis and treatment plan today.