You may be able to handle many minor medical situations at home, but everyone needs the help of a professional sometimes. When you need treatment fast, visit a walk-in medical clinic. Here are four specific situations where you may want to visit a walk-in clinic.
1. You have been ill for over a week with no signs of recovering.
Everyone gets sick occasionally. Colds are common, especially during the colder months. However, most mild illnesses should resolve on their own within a week. If your symptoms persist for longer, you feel your condition is worsening, or you have a persistent fever, you should go to a doctor. You may have an illness that won't resolve without treatment. Getting a proper diagnosis is more important than ever in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. A doctor can take a nasal swab to test for the presence of the virus. They can perform additional tests to diagnose other infections, such as pneumonia.
2. You believe you have an infection.
Cuts and scrapes are fairly common. As long as they're properly treated with first aid, these minor injuries aren't a big deal. Unfortunately, bacteria can sometimes infect even small injuries. A proliferation of bacteria can cause an infection that may spread without treatment. Antibiotics can stop infections in their tracks, but you'll need a prescription. A walk-in clinic can get you the help you need quickly.
3. You believe you may be pregnant.
Pregnancy is a big milestone in a person's life. The prospect of bringing a new child into the world is a big thing to consider. Whether you've been trying to get pregnant or trying to avoid it, a missed period is cause for note. If you think you might be pregnant, you can take a home pregnancy test to confirm your suspicions. Over-the-counter pregnancy tests can be accurate, but you should still have a pregnancy test performed by a doctor to double-check your results. At a walk-in clinic, a doctor will take a urine sample from you and then test for the presence of pregnancy hormones.
4. You're experiencing genital itching.
Genital itching can occur for a few different reasons. Yeast infections caused by pH imbalances can cause discharge and itching. Bacterial vaginosis can also cause itching and burning, as can certain sexually transmitted infections. If you notice itching, burning, pain, or discharge in your genital area, visit a walk-in clinic for an exam and lab tests. It's important to have the source of your trouble diagnosed so the doctor can give you the correct treatment.
Share