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.
Swimmer's ear, known as otitis externa in the medical world, is a common infection that affects the outer ear canal. It typically occurs due to exposure to moisture, making it a frequent concern for swimmers and those in humid environments. To help you stay informed and protect yourself from this uncomfortable condition, we present this comprehensive guide to preventing swimmer's ear. What Causes Swimmer Ear? Swimmer's ear is primarily caused by bacteria ...
What does hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) look like? The symptoms can look different for kids and adults. See what the symptoms can be and how to treat them. What is Hand-Foot-and-Mouth Disease? HFMD is a common viral illness caused by the enterovirus, most commonly the coxsackievirus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the disease primarily affects children under 5, but anyone, including adults, can contract it. It’s typically a mild illness. The disease ...
If you have a broken bone or a fracture, urgent care may be able to help. Learn the different types of fractures (broken bones), what we treat, and when to go to the ER vs. urgent care. How Do You Know a Bone is Broken? Every year, millions of people break a bone. Broken bones typically result from a trauma like a fall, car accident, or sports injury. Medical conditions such as osteoporosis or repetitive ...
Men's Health Month serves a purpose. Unlike women, who tend to prioritize regular doctor visits, men often neglect their annual check-ups or avoid seeking medical attention for injuries. This is a significant mistake as it can lead to potential health risks as men age. Understanding men's health issues and associated risks is crucial for men to safeguard themselves against dangerous diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and prostate cancer, among others. AFC Urgent ...
Physical for sports exams, also known as pre-participation physical examinations (PPEs), help determine whether a person is physically fit to participate in organized sports activities. This physical exam aims to identify any possible medical conditions that could put the athlete at risk for severe injury or illness during practice or competition. Sports physicals are typically done annually, though some states may require more frequent exams based on age and the type of sport being played ...
Ticks and Lyme disease may not be something you want to obsess over, but it’s certainly something you should keep in mind this spring and summer, especially if you live in Massachusetts. Deer ticks, in particular, are tiny and can be very sneaky, latching onto you without you knowing it. AFC Urgent Care Worcester is here to help explain what you need to know about deer ticks and Lyme disease, while providing tips on ...
While it is possible to develop lower back and leg pain from COVID, there are also several other causes. As experts in urgent healthcare services, AFC in Worcester indicates why you might be experiencing back pain after COVID and explains some other reasons you might have lower back pain. Lower Back and Leg Pain from COVID Lower back pain is a possible symptom of COVID-19. This doesn’t come as much of a surprise, given ...
So, what is mono, and what are the symptoms? American Family Care in Worcester has answers, and treatment, for you. Mononucleosis (mono) is an infectious viral disease most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), but other viruses can also cause it. Also sometimes known as the “kissing disease,” mono is spread through saliva and can even be passed from person to person from sharing cutlery and utensils. According to the CDC, mono occurs mainly ...
The healthcare industry has evolved to include telehealth urgent care, an innovative technology that has made it easier for people worldwide to access healthcare virtually. This medical service offers faster urgent care visits through virtual appointments, providing services from physical exams to diagnostics, which allows healthcare providers to connect with patients remotely, providing care, support, and information from a distance. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility or transportation issues, with busy schedules ...
