An X-ray is a form of electromagnetic radiation used to take images of the inside structures of the body, such as bones and soft tissues. It is a painless medical imaging procedure that helps doctors diagnose various conditions accurately and create the right treatment plan.
During an X-ray procedure, the patient will be positioned in a way that the body part to be examined is located between an x-ray source and detector.
Once the machine is turned on, X radiation will travel and pass through the body, where it will be absorbed by the tissues and internal organs. Each body structure will absorb different amounts of radiation depending on its radiological density. For example:
An X-ray is a convenient and effective tool used by healthcare providers to assess the health of their patients without the need for an incision.
Furthermore, X-ray technology may also be used to monitor conditions and even treat chronic diseases, such as cancer.
X-rays may safely be performed on babies, teens, and adults. Typically, doctors order an X-ray for the following purposes:
Doctors typically utilize X-rays as a standard diagnostic procedure for various injuries and conditions, such as fractures, dislocated joints, arthritis, tooth decay, and cancer. It may also be used to screen patients suspected of tuberculosis, pneumonia, and digestive tract problems.
An X-ray procedure only uses a small amount of radiation for a fraction of a second to create an image or examine a specific body structure. Healthy adults don’t have to worry about radiation overexposure or cancer since there’s little to no risk for both. Additionally, the benefits of X-rays far outweigh the small risk that comes with them.
However, this procedure has potential risks to pregnant women, children, or if a contrast medium is involved.
It is safe for pregnant women to undergo an X-ray procedure, but only if the area to be examined is NOT the abdomen or pelvis. If there’s a need for these parts to be imaged, then your doctor may order a different radiographic exam, such as an ultrasound or MRI.
Sometimes doctors may order the use of a contrast medium to get high-quality images from the X-ray. During such a procedure, a contrast agent may be given or administered to the patient before the X-ray is performed. Sometimes, contrast mediums cause mild side effects in patients, such as the following:
An X-ray is a simple and quick procedure. Typically, patients don’t need to do anything to prepare other than wear comfortable clothing and avoid bringing in jewelry or any metallic objects. Tell your doctor or radiologic technologist if you are pregnant or have a metal implant on your body.
However, some preparations are needed if you undergo a different type of X-ray imaging technique. For example, individuals undergoing contrast X-rays should fast (no food or liquid intake) for a specific number of hours and stop taking certain medications.
Patients undergoing a gastrointestinal tract X-ray exam should also fast for a certain number of hours. They may also instruct the patient to take a stimulant (Bisacodyl) to induce intestinal contraction or fast bowel movement.
A radiologic technologist will be the one to perform an X-ray procedure. They will usually ask patients to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry or metallic items on their bodies. The technologist will then position the patient or the specific body area onto an imaging plate.
Patients should remain still or sometimes hold their breath (for chest x-rays) while the technologist takes the image. The procedure only lasts for a few seconds.
X-rays are a standard procedure at urgent care facilities, such as Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches. We provide immediate, high-quality treatment options and medical services for various conditions and injuries. Our medically trained team of healthcare professionals strives hard to bring personal medical attention and exemplary patient care.
If you need a convenient option to get treated for your non-emergency needs, then you can contact us or visit one of our locations below:
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Dry skin is a common condition that can affect people of any age, regardless of their circumstances. Dry skin can cause redness, itching, and flaking, which can be uncomfortable and irritating. While there are many causes of dry skin, the five most common medical conditions that cause dry skin are eczema, psoriasis, diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease.
It is important to understand the underlying cause of dry skin in order to properly treat and manage it. In this article, we will explore each of these conditions and how to best care for your skin to reduce the risk of dryness and prevent other complications.
While there are many causes of dry skin, the five most common medical conditions that cause dry skin are the following:
Atopic dermatitis (AD), often referred to as eczema, is a common skin condition that causes itchiness, dryness, rashes, blisters, and scaly patches. Eczema is a persistent disorder that can be triggered or exacerbated by environmental factors like specific fabrics, soaps, and detergents. A study found that around 16.5 million adults have eczema, with 6.6 million reporting moderate-to-severe symptoms.
Psoriasis is an immune system disorder that manifests in the form of red, scaly patches on the skin. These patches are caused by an accelerated growth of skin cells, resulting in dryness and inflammation. While it is commonly seen on the scalp, elbows, and knees, psoriasis can occur anywhere on the body.
Diabetes is a common yet serious health condition that can result in dry skin. This dryness can cause the skin to become itchy, cracked, and unable to protect against germs and environmental irritants, resulting in discomfort and even infections and inflammation. An estimated 34 million people in the US have diabetes.
It may come as a surprise to many, but thyroid disorders can also cause dry skin. When the thyroid gland is unable to produce adequate amounts of thyroid hormone, it can lead to a plethora of skin issues such as itching, scaling, and dryness. The most common type of thyroid disorder is hypothyroidism, which is characterized by a decrease in thyroid hormone production.
Kidney disease can trigger the skin to feel dry, itchy, and flaky as well. When the body's fluid balance is disrupted, dehydration and a lack of vital nutrients that nourish the skin can occur, impairing the skin's ability to stay hydrated and healthy.
Treating dry skin can be a challenge, but proper care and maintenance can help you keep your skin looking healthy and hydrated. Here are some quick and effective tips you can follow:
Dermatologists are doctors that specialize in conditions affecting the skin. However, if you have concerns about a skin issue when a dermatologist isn’t available — weekends or evenings, for example — Urgent Care Of The Palm Beaches is open during those times. At our urgent care centers, we can diagnose and treat common skin problems.
Don’t wait for your skin problem to linger or worsen. It may be a symptom of a serious condition.
Our Walk-in clinics offer a state of the art facility and specializes in providing high quality medical care to our patients and their families in a prompt and professional manner.
We have 3 convenient locations in Palm Beach County:
Alternatively, you can contact us at (561) 328-8433 for any inquiries or to book an appointment.
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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Most allergic reactions are pretty easy to identify. However, some people might not know what they are experiencing is an allergic reaction. In this post, we'll discuss the most common symptoms of an allergic reaction and how to tell if you might have one. We'll also provide some tips for managing mild to moderate allergic reactions.
An allergic reaction occurs when your body has a physical response to something that doesn't bother most people. This can be anything from pollen and pet dander to certain foods and medications. When you come into contact with the thing you're allergic to, your immune system starts overreacting. It produces antibodies called histamines, which cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
The most common symptoms of an allergic reaction include:
If you experience any of these symptoms after coming into contact with something you think you might be allergic to, it's essential to see a doctor. They can perform tests to confirm whether or not you have an allergy and help you develop a plan to manage it.
If you're not sure whether or not what you're experiencing is an allergic reaction, there are a few things you can look for.
Ask yourself:
Suppose you answered yes to any of these questions. Then, it is better to be cautious. Allergic reactions can sometimes be severe, and it's always better to be safe than sorry.
If you think you might be allergic, you should remove yourself from the situation. If you're outdoors, move away from where you think you came into contact with the allergen. If you're indoors, go to a room away from the allergen. Once you're in a safe place, call 911 or your local emergency number.
If you have a mild reaction, you might be able to treat it with over-the-counter medication. Antihistamines can help to reduce the symptoms of an allergic reaction. However, you must go to the hospital if your symptoms are severe.
If you think you might have an allergy, the first step is to see a doctor. They can ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. If they suspect you have an allergy, they will likely order one or more tests.
The most common test used to diagnose allergies is the skin prick test. This involves placing a small amount of the suspected allergen on your skin and pricking it with a needle. If you're allergic to the substance, you will develop a raised, itchy bump within 15 minutes.
Another test that can be used to diagnose allergies is the blood test. This measures the number of antibodies in your blood specific to the allergen. It is generally less accurate than the skin prick test but can be used if you have a skin condition that makes it difficult to do the skin prick test.
The best way to treat an allergic reaction is to avoid the allergen that causes it. However, this is not always possible. If you know, you will be exposed to an allergen. You can do a few things to help prevent a reaction.
Depending on the intensity of your allergies, you can either take OTC medicines or more potent prescription drugs.
For more severe allergies, it's advised that you keep an emergency medicine like an EpiPen with you. And in rare cases of extreme sensitivity, desensitization therapy may be necessary to increase your tolerance levels.
No matter which route is best for you, always exercise caution and do everything possible to avoid triggers.
At Urgent Care of The Palm Beaches, we want to be your go-to provider for all your urgent care needs. We offer a wide range of services, including treatment for allergies. We have a team of experienced and compassionate physicians who can help you recover from your allergies and get back to your life as quickly as possible.
So, if you've been experiencing any allergies, don't worry - we can help.
Feel free to contact one of our urgent care clinics. We have three convenient locations so you can get the treatment you need as soon as possible:
Our urgent care centers also offer vaccinations and tests for various pathogens, including
And more!
Our team is here for you seven days a week, and we offer extended hours so that you can get the care you need as soon as possible. Contact us if needed!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Recently, the monkeypox outbreak has been declared a public health emergency in the United States. In this blog post, we will provide an overview of Monkeypox and answer some common questions.
Monkeypox is a virus related to other poxviruses, including smallpox and cowpox. In addition to causing pimple or blister-like lesions, it can cause flu-like symptoms. It usually affects rodents and primates such as monkeys but can infect humans too.
Usually, monkeypox occurs in central and west Africa, but recently there have been outbreaks across Europe and the United States.
The symptoms of the virus usually start 5 to 21 days after exposure, known as the incubation period. Patients often then develop flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and muscle aches.
About 5 days later, patients develop a pimple or blister-like rash. Typically the rash is located on the arms and legs, but it can also occur on the genitals and perianal area, which is what is frequently showing up with the current outbreak.
Usually, monkeypox symptoms resolve within 2-4 weeks.
Monkeypox is spread by having close contact with someone who has the virus. This can include direct physical contact with someone who has lesions, respiratory secretions through face-to-face interactions, and touching objects that have been someone with the virus has contaminated. Monkeypox can also be spread through sexual contact.
Those who are at high risk of infection are people who have had contact with someone who has the virus. The current outbreak has been affecting men who have sex with men disproportionately. Public health officials are focusing on prevention efforts specifically for this population.
Other people vulnerable to the virus include those with weakened immune systems and children under the age of 8. They also may experience a higher risk of severe illness if infected.
If you notice a blister-like rash or any of the other monkeypox symptoms, it is essential to be diagnosed by your physician. Avoid any close contact with others until diagnosed.
At Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches, we offer monkeypox testing at all of our locations. We can diagnose the condition so you can take steps to prevent the spread of infection.
If you are diagnosed, it is recommended to isolate yourself at home, away from family until the rash or lesions are gone.
Currently, there is no specific approved treatment for monkeypox, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Still, because it is genetically similar to smallpox, physicians use similar antiviral medications in some patients.
These antiviral medications are only available for those at risk of severe disease currently. For most, treatment should focus on symptom management.
Two vaccines effectively prevent monkeypox, but not all are eligible to receive one as it is currently limited.
People who are known to have been in contact with an individual with a confirmed case of monkeypox are eligible. Other people who may be eligible are those who have had a sex partner in the last 14 days who live in areas where monkeypox is spreading.
First, it is important to receive the proper diagnosis. At Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches, we offer telemedicine urgent care, so you can receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment recommendations without leaving your home.
The test will be done at curbside in the car. The results will be available in 2-4 days.
We continue to offer
No matter your urgent health care need, we are here for you. Connect with us today!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
If you've ever suffered from a burn, you know how incredibly excruciating it is. Burns can occur for various reasons - from scalding hot liquids to contact with fire or flames to overexposure to the sun.
In some cases, burns are simply a minor annoyance. But in other cases, they can lead to long-term health problems if not correctly treated.
So, how severe is a burn? Read on to find out more about this common injury and what you can do to minimize the damage.
A burn is a damage to the skin caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation. There are three different types of burns:
The symptoms of a burn depend on the type and severity of the burn. First-degree burns usually cause redness, pain, and swelling.
Second-degree burns may also cause blistering and some loss of sensation in the affected area.
Third-degree burns can cause white or charred skin, severe pain, and numbness.
The treatment for a burn is determined by its type and degree.
First-degree burns can be treated at home with over-the-counter medication and home remedies.
Second-degree burns require more aggressive treatment and may need to be seen by a doctor.
Third-degree burns always require medical attention and may need to be treated in a hospital.
If you or someone else has a burn, it's essential to act quickly to minimize the damage. For first-degree burns, hold the affected area under cool water for 10-15 minutes. You can also apply a cool, moist compress to the area. Do not use ice, as this can cause further damage.
For second-degree burns, seek medical attention immediately. For third-degree burns, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Burns are widespread but can range in severity from minor to life-threatening. It's crucial how to identify and treat different types of burns.
By understanding more about burns, you can help prevent them from happening in the first place and ensure that you get the proper treatment if you suffer from one.
Below are some tips to avoid burning.
You should seek medical attention if you have a burn more significant than 3 inches in diameter or if it covers your face, hands, feet, genitals, or other sensitive areas.
You should also see a doctor if you have a second-degree burn or if the burn is accompanied by pain, swelling, redness, or blistering.
Third-degree burns always require medical attention and should be seen by a doctor as soon as possible.
If you have a third-degree burn, you should call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. You should also go to the emergency room if you have a second-degree burn larger than 3 inches in diameter or if it covers your face, hands, feet, genitals, or other sensitive areas.
If you are unsure whether or not your burn requires medical attention, it's always best to be on the side of caution and seek medical help.
We are at Urgent Care and want to be your go-to provider for all your urgent care needs. We offer a wide range of services, including treatment for burns. We have a team of experienced and compassionate physicians who can help you recover from your burn and get back to your life as quickly as possible.
So, if you've been unfortunate enough to sustain a burn, don't worry - we at Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches can help.
Feel free to contact one of our urgent care clinics. We have three convenient locations so you can get the treatment you need as soon as possible:
Our urgent care centers also offer vaccinations and tests for various pathogens, including COVID-19 testing and Rapid COVID testing.
Moreover, we are currently offering free COVID-19 treatment in Florida – Oral COVID medication – Paxlovid & Lagevrio.
Our team is here for you seven days a week, and we offer extended hours so that you can get the care you need as soon as possible. Contact us if needed!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Asthma symptoms can come on suddenly and without warning. Coughing, wheezing, and feeling as though you can’t catch your breath can be frightening.
If you have suffered from chronic asthma it may seem as though you are stuck in a cycle where you are trying to take control of your asthma, yet it is controlling you.
The good news is if you know how to manage it properly, asthma doesn’t need to keep you from enjoying your life.
This article will explain 7 tips on how to best manage asthma and associated symptoms so you can breathe easier!
Though it may be easier said than done, avoiding stressful situations can help you manage asthma.
Stress may not directly trigger asthma, but it can make it more difficult to control the symptoms.
As an example, extended periods of stress, combined with uncontrolled breathing problems may contribute to other health concerns. It also can impact your life, making it difficult to sleep, concentrate and have an effect on your mental health.
It is important for patients to manage stress by regularly exercising, meditating, getting enough sleep, limiting alcohol and eating healthy food.
Something as simple as going for a walk may also reduce your stress and help you get some fresh air into your lungs.
Smoking or being in close proximity to a smoker is not the best idea for anyone, let alone a person who has asthma.
Cigarette smoke irritates your lungs’ airways and it will definitely exacerbate your symptoms, e.g., coughing and wheezing.
Additionally, it may permanently damage your airways, and cause cancer, gum disease, heart disease and high blood pressure.
Also, it is important to avoid secondhand smoke. Choose to walk away from those who are smoking or ask them not to smoke next because it may flare your symptoms.
One of the best ways to manage your asthma is avoiding asthma triggers. Triggers may be different for everyone.
The key is to determine which triggers affect you specifically and avoid them as a precaution. Common triggers include dust, pollen, indoor mold, strong odors, sprays, colds or even some foods and beverages (shrimp, dried fruit, wine).
If you have been prescribed medication, try not to forget to take it, even if you are feeling fine.
It’s best to find a routine that works best for you to remember when to take preventative medication. Also always make sure to have your rescue inhaler on hand.
It may also slip your mind to refill your prescription if you’re running low. Don’t wait until the last minute. Staying on top of your medication schedule is one of the most effective ways to manage the condition.
You may not want to burden your family and friends so you try to manage asthma on your own.
If you are strong-willed and self-reliant, doctors advise having someone who can help you in an emergency. It is important not only in emergency situations, but also to help you manage triggers and help you remember to take prescribed medication.
By keeping your home clean, you can reduce or eliminate common asthma triggers. This includes dirt, dust, and pet dander. If you are cleaning yourself it is a good idea to wear a mask so as to not irritate the lungs.
It’s also important to try to get rid of mold in your home. It isn’t just in the bathroom and you may find it in other areas of the home that are damp. Mold can be invisible, airborne or stick to fabrics in the home. If you suffer from asthma it is best to ask for help to identify and manage mold in your home.
If you suffer from asthma or suspect that you may have it, don’t wait until your symptoms worsen.
You can effectively manage asthma with the help of your doctor. They not only can prescribe you the best medications to manage asthma, but can also give you advice on how to manage asthma attacks.
Wheezing, coughing, or feeling tightness in your chest? We have three convenient clinics if you need help with asthma symptoms
We are not only a walk in urgent care but also offer telemedicine urgent care if appropriate.
COVID-19 can be especially alarming for those who have asthma. If you have been exposed to COVID-19 or are experiencing symptoms we offer COVID-19 testing, including rapid COVID testing.
Our physicians are compassionate and knowledgeable on the best treatment for emergency asthma attacks. Contact or visit us so you can take control of your asthma symptoms!
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Have you noticed vision changes as you have gotten older? You are not alone! As a matter of fact, the leading cause of blindness in the United States is closely related to old age. But there is also some good news: Early detection and treatment can help minimize the impact on your sight.
In this article, we hope to provide education and awareness of common eye causes of blindness.
Many patients who think of causes of blindness may wonder about glaucoma. Glaucoma is not one disorder but a group of diseases. The result is damage to the optic nerve, which results in vision loss.
There are two different types of Glaucoma: open-angle and closed-angle. Open-angle is slow to progress, while closed angle is sudden and painful. Patients often seek treatment due to the pain, which helps early intervention.
With effective diagnosis and treatment, patients can manage their pain while minimizing the risk of blindness.
Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness worldwide. A cataract is a clouding of the eye lens that can occur at any age. The following can contribute to the development of cataracts:
The way cataracts affect the eyes can vary, including complete or partial, and hard or soft. Cataracts are treatable, but patients face barriers, including lack of awareness and cost. The condition can be treated through surgical and non-surgical interventions depending upon the progression.
Age-Related macular degeneration (AMD) is the number one cause of impairment in reading and close vision over 65. It can significantly impact daily tasks such as work and driving. The condition affects sharp and central vision.
There are two forms: wet and dry. Wet AMD is when abnormal blood vessels begin to grow in the eye, leading to blood and fluid leakage. The fluid and scarring can lead to damage and vision loss. Initially, it may present as straight lines appearing as wavy.
Dry AMD is where the macula thins over time. Gradually central vision becomes blurry. It progresses slowly and is more common than wet AMD. Drusen is an early sign of Dry AMD.
Urgent medical care is often sought for injuries to the eyes, such as cuts or impact injuries. But urgent care can also assist with diagnosing, treating, and referral for other eye concerns. Whether you are without primary care or there has been a sudden vision change, our providers can help determine what is impacting your eyesight.
Currently, we serve patients at the following locations:
We are dedicated to providing passionate and professional care to our patients. Safety is a priority, and we currently offer telemedicine urgent care in Florida for many conditions, including:
Contact us for an appointment today!
Even before COVID-19 has turned the world upside down, patients with contagious respiratory diseases are already advised to wear a face mask to avoid transmitting the disease to other people.
Patients who are immunocompromised, or those with a weak immune system, also have to wear a face mask to avoid catching a respiratory disease from other people.
But with the new coronavirus, why do health authorities ask everyone to wear face masks regardless of their health status?
And how can wearing face masks save lives?
These masks are made of non-woven fabric. They are loose-fitting, disposable, and designed to cover the mouth and nose of the wearer.
You can buy cloth masks or even sew one yourself. Ideally, cloth masks shouldn’t be made of stretchy knits. Cotton fabrics or linen can make good cloth masks. The fewer holes you see when you hold the fabric up to the light, the better filtration it has against droplets.
These masks are tight-fitting and can protect the wearer from droplets that are suspended in the air. Because of short supply, these are only recommended for health care workers and first responders.
COVID-19 has infected approximately 33 million people to date and killed a million people worldwide since the disease was identified last December 31, 2019. Based on these numbers, 3% of infected patients die.
The disease is transmitted from person to person through droplets. These droplets are produced when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes. The transmission usually occurs among people who are in close contact with each other, so you should stay at least 1 meter away from other people. If you are standing within 1 meter of a person, you might inhale droplets that may contain the virus.
But, physical distancing is not enough. And the reality is, it’s hard to maintain all the time. That’s why the general public is also encouraged to wear face masks to protect themselves and other people.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) strongly recommends the wearing of face masks in the following situations:
Wearing face masks can effectively limit the spread of COVID-19 if worn correctly. The mask should be snug and fully cover the person’s mouth and nose. If it is a surgical mask, it should be disposed of properly after use. If it is a fabric mask, it should be washed with soap, detergent, and hot water at least once a day.
Even healthy people can be carriers, which means that they are infected but have no signs and symptoms. And even without symptoms, carriers can transmit the virus to other people. That’s why wearing face masks must be practiced by everyone, even if you are healthy and fit.
In essence, the purpose of all these measures is to protect yourself and other people, especially those who have other diseases, pregnant, and elderly, as they are the ones who are most vulnerable.
Although they are more comfortable, masks with exhalation valves only protect the wearer, but can still spread the infection to others through the valve.
If you have had any of the signs and symptoms of COVID-19, such as sore throat, cough, fever, chest pain, and shortness of breath during the past two weeks, we strongly recommend that you get yourself tested for COVID-19.
We offer both IgG antibody tests for immunity and nasopharyngeal swab tests in all of our locations. Please schedule an appointment with us through our telemedicine urgent care services or call us at 561-429-6109.
For your health concerns in the time of COVID-19, you may consult our physicians at Urgent Care of the Palm Beach Gardens through our telemedicine services. Our locations remain open seven days a week to deliver health services to our patients and the community:
Likewise, if you have any questions about COVID-19, feel free to contact our clinic. We are more than willing to answer any questions you might have about the disease.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
Elevated blood pressure (hypertension) is a common chronic condition, often treated in an urgent care setting. Identifying high blood pressure is important to avoid a hypertensive emergency, which can result in organ damage.
Hypertension is when you have blood pressure of over 140/90 that is sustained for some time. It is common, affecting approximately 40% of emergency room patients in the United States every year. If not managed appropriately, hypertension can turn into a hypertensive emergency.
A hypertensive emergency is less common than hypertension. A hypertensive crisis can result in organ failure and death. Usually, it is when you have blood pressure of over 180/120, plus evidence of end-stage organ damage. Evaluation and treatment are critical to prevent progression of the condition.
The most common organs affected in a hypertensive emergency include the brain, heart, and kidneys. Common conditions resulting from a hypertensive crisis include stroke, heart failure, pulmonary edema, and acute kidney injury.
A hypertensive emergency must be treated in an urgent care or emergency room setting. It is best not to wait if you are concerned or have symptoms of a hypertensive crisis. Seek medical care immediately.
It is essential to monitor your blood pressure at home if you have hypertension. If your blood pressure increases significantly over your baseline, you have a blood pressure over 180/120, or have any concern organs may be affected, you must have your blood pressure verified by a health professional.
Frequent blood pressure checks will likely be required. The team will look for a correlation between symptoms and blood pressure.
Physicians will perform a physical examination. The physician will likely perform a neurological exam, assess heart and lung sounds, perform a head to toe physical, and discuss symptom history. The examination will give a picture of overall functioning within the body.
Labs and images are often ordered if a hypertensive emergency is suspected. Specific tests may be requested to target the organs that may be affected. These may include:
Physicians will administer medications to correct a hypertensive emergency. The goal is to restore blood pressure in a controlled way, so it does not drop too quickly. Proper correction of blood pressure can prevent or reverse end-organ damage, so treatment as soon as possible is best.
Urgent Care of The Palm Beaches offers comprehensive care plans for people diagnosed with hypertension. Whether it is a one-time occurrence related to pain or illness, or a chronic condition needing maintenance care management, our physicians can provide you with the care you need regularly.
We are also offering telemedicine urgent care so you may meet with a physician from the comfort of your home. Telemedicine is a convenient and option for many managing chronic illnesses such as hypertension.
Urgent care of The Palm Beaches has three locations open seven days a week:
Our physicians can perform a comprehensive exam, order necessary tests, treat hypertensive conditions appropriate for urgent care settings, and refer to a higher level of care if deemed necessary.
Both telemedicine and walk-in visits are being offered. If looking for “COVID-19 testing in Palm Beach County”, this may also be completed at any one of our three locations.
If you have any questions about hypertension, hypertensive emergency, COVID-19, or any other medical condition, please contact our clinic. We are happy to answer questions and assist with the treatment of hypertension as well as many other health concerns.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. FastStats: Emergency Department Visits. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/emergency-department.htm
Juhasz, J. (2020). Managing hypertensive emergencies in the urgent care setting. Retrieved from https://www.jucm.com/managing-hypertensive-emergencies-in-the-urgent-care-setting/
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
You probably heard of nausea being mentioned many times by medical professionals almost always in conjunction with vomiting. The reason for this is because the parts of the brain that control nausea and vomiting are the same. In fact, these two are involuntary actions being controlled by the medulla oblongata, also called the vomiting center of the brain.
There are many reasons why someone may experience nausea and vomiting. In the first part of this series, we established the difference between the two. We also discussed the first three possible causes namely food poisoning, anorexia, and bulimia. Now, our doctor in Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches walk-in clinic in Palm Beach Gardens will discuss four more:
Brain infections
In patients with brain infections, such as meningitis, nausea and vomiting are common symptoms. According to the National Meningitis Association, 600 – 1,000 Americans get meningococcal disease every year with a 10-15% death rate. Meningitis refers to the swelling of the meninges that protect and cover the brain and spinal cord. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. When the meninges are inflamed, this disrupts the balance and increases the pressure inside the brain, which leads to nausea and vomiting.
Head injury
Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has shown that 1.5 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) every year. Patients who suffered from concussions, a mild form of TBI, have increased intracranial pressure, which may lead to nausea, vomiting, and headache.
Brain tumors
A tumor in the brain can disrupt your chemical and hormonal balance, leading to nausea and vomiting. As the tumor grows, it consumes space and displaces brain tissues, increasing the pressure inside the brain, which further contributes to nausea and vomiting. For patients undergoing chemotherapy, nausea and vomiting may be a side effect of the treatment. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, approximately 24,000 Americans will be diagnosed with this type of tumor in 2020.
Migraine
A migraine is a severe form of headache that’s often described as pounding, pulsing, or throbbing. Over 38 million Americans suffer from migraines. Although the cause of migraine is largely unknown, there are external and internal factors that may trigger an attack. The reasons why patients with migraine experience nausea and vomiting are still not clear, although some experts believe that this can be due to disturbances in the inner ear and the brain.
If you are experiencing nausea and vomiting, you must seek medical help immediately from doctors in Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches walk-in clinic in Palm Beach Gardens to identify the cause of your symptoms. Only after finding out the real cause can you be given proper treatment and medical management.
For your convenience, we have made our services more accessible. Urgent Care of the Palm Beaches has clinics in three convenient locations: Urgent Care Forest Hill, Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Springs, and West Palm Beach. You may schedule an appointment with our doctors online or come over as a walk-in patient. We guarantee you a maximum of 15 minutes waiting time.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
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