Acute Illnesses

When you have an acute illness, like the flu or strep throat, prompt medical care is often necessary to ensure a safe and healthy recovery. At Cary Medical Clinic in Cary and Morrisville, North Carolina, expert internal medicine physician Neelu Agarwal, MD, and the team offer comprehensive care for acute illnesses. Same-day sick visits are also available. To find out more about acute illness treatment, call the office nearest you or schedule an appointment online today.

What is acute illness?

Acute illness develops suddenly and typically lasts for three months or less. Unlike chronic health conditions, which may last for six months or more, acute illnesses usually resolve quickly with proper treatment. 

But since symptoms appear rather abruptly, immediate care is often necessary to prevent serious complications. Without responsive care, some acute conditions can even be life-threatening.

Cary Medical Clinic offers on-site lab services to diagnose and treat a wide range of acute illnesses.

What are some types of acute illness? 

Many types of acute illness can impact your health and well-being. Some of the most common acute conditions include:

• Common cold
• Headache
• Influenza (Flu)
• Strep throat
• Pneumonia
• Stomach flu
• Asthma attack
• Sinusitis

While some acute illnesses may improve gradually on their own, professional medical care can help reduce worsening symptoms and your risk of life-threatening complications. 

If you or a loved one suspects you have an acute illness, your provider can perform the appropriate diagnostic tests to determine the best treatment approach.

X-rays, bloodwork, urinalysis, and rapid strep tests are just a few tests your provider at Cary Medical Clinic may recommend.

How is acute illness treated? 

Acute illness treatment depends on the type of illness you have and the severity of your symptoms. Standard treatments that Cary Medical Clinic may recommend for acute conditions include:

• Rest and fluids 
• Over-the-counter (OTC) cold and flu medicine
• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines
• Prescription medication

Your provider works closely with you to develop a care plan that helps support your healthy recovery. Depending on your needs, they may recommend conservative approaches or other therapies. 

When should I seek medical care for an acute illness?

Without proper treatment, some acute illnesses may have severe consequences. The earlier you seek treatment for an acute illness, the more likely you will have a quicker recovery and positive outcome. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms of an acute condition to ensure you receive appropriate care.

Signs and symptoms of acute illness may include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Fever
• Severe swelling
• Muscle aches 
• Trouble breathing
• Headache
• Ear pain
• Persistent cough
• Sore throat

If your symptoms worsen quickly, you should go to your nearest urgent care clinic or emergency room (ER). 

Acute illnesses can be treated safely and effectively with professional help. To find out more about treatment options, call Cary Medical Clinic or schedule an appointment online today.