Recent Blog Posts

Is Norovirus (Stomach Flu) related to the flu?

January 2, 2024

You’re experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, and are unsure of the cause. Could it be your favorite restaurant that got you sick? The restaurant itself couldn't have made you sick, but perhaps you contracted the stomach flu, also known as Norovirus, from there. AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has put together a guide to help you understand what Norovirus is, recognize its symptoms, and learn how to prevent it!  Is It Norovirus? According to the ...

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Is There a Difference Between Telemedicine and Telehealth Urgent Care?

December 18, 2023

Telehealth is a broad term for tech-enabled healthcare services, while telemedicine specifically refers to remote medical services via video or other technology. Telehealth aims to improve healthcare access by meeting people where they are, while telemedicine focuses on remote diagnosis and treatment. Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and improved access for vulnerable populations.

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Food Poisoning: When and Why to Visit AFC West Springfield MA

December 18, 2023

Food poisoning symptoms range from mild to severe. While rest and hydration often help, urgent care is needed for persistent vomiting/diarrhea, severe pain, high fever, dehydration, or if you're in a high-risk group. Ignoring symptoms can lead to complications.

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Is My Christmas tree making me sick? Yes, It Might Be Christmas Tree Syndrome!

December 1, 2023

If you constantly find yourself catching a cold during the winter holidays, you may be allergic to Christmas trees. More precisely, your allergy might be related to something associated with Christmas trees rather than the tree itself. Many individuals believe that plant-based allergies are exclusive to warm weather. However, there are several reasons why your holiday tree can be the cause of your flu-like symptoms., AFC Urgent Care West Springfield has created a guide to ...

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Is Going to Urgent Care Like Going to the Emergency Room?

December 1, 2023

Urgent care centers offer fast, convenient medical care for non-emergency illnesses and injuries. They are open extended hours and provide a cost-effective alternative to the ER. They also bridge the gap between primary and specialty care, streamlining referrals and follow-up treatments.

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Can You Get Strep Without Tonsils?

November 14, 2023

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.

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Here Are the Facts: Can Bronchitis Turn Into Pneumonia?

November 10, 2023

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.

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What Are the Degrees of Burns? A Guide to Identifying Burns

November 7, 2023

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 ...

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Understanding Diabetes: American Diabetes Awareness Month

November 6, 2023

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 ...

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Urgent Care Experts Offer Alternatives to Phenylephrine

October 7, 2023

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 ...

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