Going to a Walk in Clinic for Minor Illness Treatment

Wondering whether you should go to a walk in clinic for your minor ailment? Read on to find out. If you have a mild sickness, such as a cold, flu, sinus infection, rash, or injury, you may be unsure of where to go for treatment. Visiting the emergency room for a mild sickness is not necessary since walk in clinics are available. Treatment for a non-emergency health condition is considered minor illness treatment.

An overview of the treatment of minor illnesses at a walk in clinic

Minor illness treatment encompasses any medical problem that is neither life-threatening nor urgent yet needs medical care. Over-the-counter medications may be used to treat many minor ailments, including colds and sore throats, although they may improve without intervention. However, antibiotics may be required for mild illnesses such as infections.

The symptoms will only worsen for many of these illnesses until the patient gets medical attention. The physician may be able to provide some relief from their symptoms while the patient is recovering.

Who needs minor illness treatment?

Sore throats, cough, and fevers are common early signs of minor sickness. It is advisable to get enough rest and drink plenty of water at the outset of sickness symptoms. Take over-the-counter painkillers or fever-reducing medications to ease discomfort. Heading to a walk in clinic may be a good idea in this case.

The importance of minor illness treatment

Some mild ailments require medical attention to prevent further deterioration. Severe problems may result from untreated bacterial infections, such as sepsis, leading to organ damage or failure. The doctor might prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the germs causing the illness.

People often wait until their symptoms worsen before seeking medical attention. The medical professionals at a walk in clinic can provide long-term comfort and create a treatment plan that is unique to each patient. They can also help patients in making lifestyle adjustments that will help them maintain good health.

What to expect from treatment at a walk in clinic

The primary care physician at the clinic will evaluate the patient's medical history and discuss the patient's symptoms during the visit. After an evaluation, the minor illness will be treated according to the patient's unique needs. Additional testing may be necessary if the doctor cannot identify the issue with a normal office exam. Prescriptions for treatment will also be given to the patient.

Follow-up care

There is generally no need for follow-up treatment for most minor ailments. However, it may take some time for symptoms to disappear. For example, as many as 18 days might pass between the onset of a cold and the time it takes to recover from a sinus infection. If the patient's symptoms do not improve or worsen after therapy, they should make an appointment for a follow-up visit.