How Can Be Apart?

Basically, the flu makes you feel blah, and more like "ouch, I need a nap"while dengue hits like a mosquito-driven truck, earning its nickname "bone-breaker disease" due to severe pain, especially behind the eyes. 

If you are unsure, or any of the following applies to you, come see us or visit with your primary care provider:

• Diagnosed with other chronic medical conditions (Asthma/COPD, Diabetes, Hypertension, HIV/AIDS, Autoimmune Diseases such as Lupus).
• The patient is a child or an elderly person.

Sprains & Strains

Not Broken, But Need A  Break!

Call them the unwelcome guests of the musculoskeletal world - that we should all take seriously, though most of us do not. A sprain affects ligaments (the tissues that connect bones to bones), often caused by a twist or fall. Think of it as your joint shouting, "Ouch! I twisted something!"

While a strain affects tendons (tissues that connect muscles to bones), often from overstretching or overuse. Think of it as your muscle saying, "I'm tired and I'm pulling something!"

Self-Care is Key

and We're Not Talking Bubble Baths, Though Those Help Too!

• Hydration is Your Best Friend: Whether it's the flu or dengue with diarrhea, staying hydrated is crucial. Think water, coconut water, and oral rehydration solutions (ORS). Imagine your insides are a plant – you need to water it to thrive!
• Rest, Rest, Rest: Your body needs time to recover. Think of it as a power nap for your immune system. Netflix binges totally count as rest, by the way.
• Over-the-counter Medications: For fever and pain, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help. Always follow dosage instructions. We're not doctors on the internet, so consult a healthcare professional if you have any questions.
• Chicken Soup for the Soul (and Body - for illnesses): Grandma knew what she was talking about. Chicken soup is comforting and can help you feel better. Plus, it's delicious!
• RICE (for sprains and strains): Rest the injured area. Ice it to reduce swelling. Compress it with a bandage (not too tight!). Elevate it above your heart. Think of it as a mini spa treatment for your injury, but with a purpose.
• Pain Relief (for sprains and strains): Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation. Again, always follow dosage instructions.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Unless We're Talking About Chocolate

• Vaccines (for flu): Get your flu shot! It's the best way to protect yourself and your community. Think of it as a superhero shield against the flu.
• Mosquito Control (for dengue): For dengue, mosquito control is essential. Use mosquito repellent, eliminate standing water around your home, and wear protective clothing. Think long sleeves and pants, especially during dawn and dusk.
• Hand Hygiene (for illnesses): Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. If soap and water aren't available, use hand sanitizer. Think of it as a mini spa treatment for your hands, but with the added bonus of killing germs.
• Warm-up and Stretching (for sprains and strains): Before any physical activity, warm up your muscles and stretch. Think of it as preparing your body for action.
• Proper Footwear (for sprains and strains): Wear shoes that fit well and provide good support. Think of it as giving your feet a comfy hug.
• Know Your Limits (for sprains and strains): Don't push yourself too hard, especially if you're just starting a new activity. Think of it as listening to your body's whispers before it starts to shout.

When to Visit Urgent Care SKN:

While self-care is important, there are times when you need professional help. Come see us if you experience any of the following:

• Difficulty breathing (for illnesses): This is a serious sign and requires immediate medical attention.
• High fever that doesn't come down (for illnesses): Especially if accompanied by other symptoms.
• Severe dehydration (for illnesses): Signs include dizziness, lightheadedness, and decreased urination.
• Worsening symptoms (for illnesses): If your symptoms are getting worse, don't wait. Come see us.
• Confusion or altered mental state (for illnesses): This is also a serious sign.
• Severe pain (for sprains and strains): If the pain is intense and doesn't improve with RICE and over-the-counter medication.
• Inability to bear weight (for sprains and strains): If you can't put weight on the injured area.
• Deformity (for sprains and strains): If the injured area looks deformed.