Recent Blog Posts

Is getting strep without tonsils possible? Yes. Strep throat is caused by bacteria that can live in the nose and mouth, spread through saliva or contact with contaminated surfaces. Strep throat symptoms include sore throat, pain when swallowing, fever, red/swollen tonsils, and swollen lymph nodes. Tonsillitis and strep throat are different. Strep throat is caused by bacteria, while tonsillitis can be caused by bacteria or a virus. If you think you have tonsillitis or strep throat, visit an urgent care center for diagnosis and treatment.

Read more..

Bronchitis, an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, can sometimes develop into pneumonia if left untreated. This is more likely in individuals with weakened immune systems. Pneumonia is a lung infection with symptoms such as cough, chest pain, chills, and fever. Both conditions require medical attention, but treatments differ depending on the cause and severity.

Read more..

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 ...

Read more..

When November arrives, signaling the end of fall and the onset of colder weather, we also know that the holiday season with its delectable food and sweets is just around the corner. November holds another significance as it is American Diabetes Month. This is the time to delve deeper into the understanding of Diabetes, a chronic health condition that is one of the most prevalent diseases in the United States. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield ...

Read more..

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 ...

Read more..

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 ...

Read more..

As we dive into the colder months, it's crucial to understand the potential health risks that come along with it. It's not just the common cold and flu we need to be aware of but also the lesser-known yet equally perilous Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). While often mistaken for the flu due to their similar symptoms, RSV and the flu are distinct in several ways. With that being said, AFC Urgent Care West ...

Read more..

Back-to-school sports physicals are vital for student athletes. They ensure health and meet requirements. Urgent care clinics offer quick, comprehensive exams with convenience and confidentiality. AFC provides affordable physicals, prioritizing your child's well-being.

Read more..

As we celebrate "National Immunization Awareness Month" in August, it's the perfect time to prioritize your child's annual physical to ensure they are well-prepared for the upcoming school year. This isn't just any routine physical—it plays a crucial role in promoting immunization awareness and safeguarding your child's health. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield is committed to providing comprehensive care during back to school physicals, aligning with the mission of this ...

Read more..

If you have an STD but haven't been sexually active, you may have contracted it through sharing needles, tattoos/piercings, blood transfusions, or other means. Some STDs are asymptomatic but can lead to serious health consequences if left untreated. AFC urgent care clinics offer confidential STD testing and treatment.

Read more..