Acute Problems

What are acute problems?

Acute problems are medical conditions that require urgent care rather than waiting for a routine appointment.

Michigan Avenue Primary Care provides comprehensive primary and urgent care for most acute conditions. You can also visit Michigan Avenue Immediate Care’s (MAIC) walk-in clinic for acute problems.

What conditions can cause acute problems?

The conditions most likely to cause acute problems include:

Infectious diseases

Common infections include colds, flu, strep throat, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and stomach bugs that cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Chronic condition flare-ups

Chronic (long-term) conditions can sometimes cause acute problems. Examples include asthma attacks, extreme itchiness and sore skin from an eczema flare-up, and allergic reactions.

Mental health problems

If you’re having a crisis with depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition, it’s best to see your doctor before your symptoms get worse. Acute problems with a substance abuse disorder also need prompt attention.

Headaches and migraines

Severe headaches and migraines are common acute problems. You also need to see a doctor quickly for a minor head injury or concussion.

Musculoskeletal pain

Acute musculoskeletal problems include lower back pain, neck pain, sprains and strains, fractures, and joint pain.

Injuries

In addition to musculoskeletal injuries, Michigan Avenue Primary Care also offers expert care for cuts, burns, and scalds. They clean, stitch, and dress wounds. They also remove foreign objects and splinters.

Michigan Avenue Primary Care can help with other acute problems, including sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, ear and eye pain, and ingrown nails.

When should I go to the hospital emergency room for acute problems?

Michigan Avenue Primary Care is the best place for minor to moderate health problems and injuries. It’s less stressful and provides precisely the care you need for most acute problems.

However, sometimes you should go straight to the hospital emergency room. Acute problems that require emergency hospital care include:

• Severe knife or gunshot wounds
• Moderate-to-severe burns
• Severe head or spine injuries
• Sudden, severe chest pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Compound fractures (where you can see bone)
• Intent to commit suicide

Suddenly losing the ability to speak or move, having a seizure, and losing consciousness are all signs that you need emergency medical care. Hospital care is also best for babies under three months old with a fever of 100.4 degrees or above.

If you or someone you’re with has any of these symptoms, call 911 immediately or get to the nearest hospital emergency room without delay.

Call Michigan Avenue Primary Care today to find out more or book an appointment online to benefit from their expert care for acute problems.