by Olivia Miller | May 14, 2024 | Healthy Living Protein and Weight Loss With the arrival of cookout season, many of us indulge in an array of delicious grilled meats. However, there’s a growing trend toward incorporating more plant-based proteins into our diets to diversify our nutritional intake, boost nutrient levels, and increase fiber consumption. Understanding Protein: The Basics Protein is a crucial macronutrient composed of amino acids, which are essential for numerous bodily functions ...

Read more..

by Olivia Miller | Apr 29, 2024 | Healthy Living Am I Sick, or Just Allergic? The dull dreary days of winter are in the rear-view mirror. People are emerging from their winter cocoons with close quarters and communal germs. It’s spring and you want to get on with some warm weather fun…….local activity…. but you feel lousy. You thought warmer weather would chase all the contagions away, so what’s up with all the ...

Read more..

by Olivia Miller | Apr 14, 2024 | Emergency Clinic How Do I Know If I Need an X-ray? Spring is in the air, and with it comes the excitement of outdoor sports. Whether you’re playing a friendly game of soccer, taking a bike ride, or enjoying a round of golf, the risk of injury is always present. Imagine you’re in the middle of an exhilarating game of soccer, sprinting towards the goal, when you ...

Read more..

by Olivia Miller | Mar 30, 2024 | Family Health Protecting Your Child from Ticks It’s that time of year again, time to get back outdoors and visit one of your favorite Gaston County parks. You aren’t sure which mood will strike once you’ve finished your picnic lunch, so your solution is to pack it all—your fishing pole, running sneakers, and your bike. People aren’t the only ones prepared for warmer weather ...

Read more..

by Olivia Miller | Mar 13, 2024 | Family Health How Do You Catch Measles? Measles is spread through direct contact with an infected person or through airborne droplets. Here are common methods of transmission: Sharing utensils or beverages Intimate interactions like kissing Physical greetings, including handshakes or hugs Contact with contaminated surfaces, followed by touching one’s face Additionally, pregnant women can transmit measles to their unborn child, during birth, or while breastfeeding. What is Measles ...

Read more..

Should You Use Ice or Heat for Gout Relief? Are you wondering if you should use ice or heat for gout relief? Both ice and heat therapies can be utilized for managing pain and inflammation; however, cold therapy is likely the best choice for managing pain and inflammation during a gout flare. Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, can cause excruciating pain and discomfort during flare-ups. This condition, characterized by sudden and severe attacks of ...

Read more..

Are Syphilis Sores on Your Hand Contagious? Syphilis infection rates have risen to their highest levels since the 1950s and the Charlotte area has the highest incidences in the state of North Carolina. Charlotte is ranked 13th in the nation of 100 cities studied. Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that conjures up images of painful sores and which spreads through sexual contact between two people. Most cases in the U.S. are diagnosed ...

Read more..

How Common is Bronchitis? Did you know that more than 3 million people get sick with bronchitis each year in the United States? For most, the inconvenience lasts just a week or two and the rest required while recovering makes it the perfect time to binge your favorite shows. Below, our AFC Urgent Care Gastonia team provides more information about bronchitis and provides tips on how to best deal with the symptoms. What Is Bronchitis ...

Read more..

How Long Do Kidney Stones Last? Understanding Kidney Stones: Formation, Symptoms, and Treatment Kidney stones are a common and often painful condition that affects many individuals. Optimizing your knowledge about their formation, symptoms, and the latest treatment options can empower you to navigate this health challenge with confidence. What Triggers Kidney Stone Formation? Kidney stones, or renal calculi, form when certain waste products in urine do not dissolve properly, leading to an imbalance that causes ...

Read more..

Gastonia, situated in scenic Southwest North Carolina, is a gem with its natural beauty and historic small-town charm. Recognized as a three-time All-American City and a U.S. Conference of Mayors Top Livability winner, it’s a community where families are thriving. Parenthood brings its own set of challenges, including dealing with common issues like ear infections in young children. If your little one is experiencing the discomfort of an ear infection, fear not. AFC ...

Read more..