Acute Illnesses

What are acute illnesses?

Acute illnesses occur suddenly with little warning. Acute illnesses usually get better quickly with medical treatment. Examples of common acute illnesses include colds, the flu, ear infections, strep throat, and urinary tract infections.

What types of acute illnesses do you treat?

At Encino Park Family Health & Wellness Clinic, the team regularly treats a variety of acute illnesses, including:

Strep throat

Strep throat is a highly contagious bacterial infection caused by group A streptococcus. Strep throat is especially common in children and teenagers, accounting for one-third of all sore throats. Telltale signs of strep throat include severe throat inflammation and trouble swallowing. Fortunately, it’s easy to treat strep throat with antibiotics.

Urinary tract infections

A urinary tract infection develops when microbes enter your urinary tract and infect your urinary system. While anyone can develop a urinary tract infection, they’re especially common in women. Common symptoms include a strong, persistent urge to urinate, strong-smelling urine, and a burning sensation when urinating.

Ear infections

Ear infections are a common acute illness that affects children. Left unmanaged, ear infections can cause hearing problems and other more serious complications. If your child wakes up complaining of an earache, schedule an appointment at Encino Park Family Health & Wellness Clinic right away.

Flu

The flu is a highly contagious virus associated with symptoms like a sore throat, runny nose, cough, chills, and body aches. You can significantly lower your risk of catching the flu by getting a flu shot every year.

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

The respiratory syncytial virus is a common respiratory infection that typically affects infants and children. This virus is very contagious and presents symptoms like a cough, wheezing, and trouble breathing.

What should I do if I think I have an acute illness?

If you think you might have an acute illness, make an appointment at Encino Park Family  Health & Wellness Clinic right away. 

Following an exam, discussion of your symptoms, and a review of your medical history, your doctor can develop a treatment plan that aligns with your individual needs.

Depending on your symptoms, this can include staying home from work and getting plenty of sleep or taking prescription antibiotics. 

Whatever the case, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Doing so will speed up the healing process and lower your risk of spreading your condition to others.

Don’t let an acute illness prevent you from living your best life. Make an appointment at Encino Park Family Health & Wellness Clinic by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool today.