Sick Visits

What is a sick visit?

A sick visit typically refers to medical appointments and physician visits that address acute medical conditions, such as sinusitis or a urinary tract infection. Some sick visits and acute care involve the evaluation and treatment of a preexisting chronic illness that suddenly presents a flare-up of symptoms.

Emergency care and sick visits are different. Emergency care deals with conditions and situations that are severe, life-threatening, and warrant immediate medical attention. Sick visits deal with health problems that need medical attention soon but aren’t life-threatening and are likely to subside within a few days, weeks, or sometimes within a month or two of treatment.

What are some of the most common reasons for sick visits?

Urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, asthma, and sinusitis are just some of the most common reasons for sick visits. The Michigan Avenue Primary Care team treats a broad spectrum of acute conditions and medical problems and concerns, including:

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses, typically due to an infection. Acute sinusitis usually lasts up to four weeks.

Urinary tract infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection affecting any part of your urinary system — including your ureters, kidneys, bladder, and urethra. Most UTIs occur in your urethra and bladder.

Pneumonia

Pneumonia refers to an infection that results in inflamed and often pus- or fluid-filled air sacs in one or both lungs. With pneumonia, you might have a cough with pus or phlegm, breathing difficulties, and a fever. Pneumonia can be caused by several organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses.

Pneumonia can vary from mild to life-threatening. Mild and moderate cases of pneumonia can be treated at a sick visit, but more life-threatening and severe cases need emergency medical attention as quickly as possible.

What does a sick visit involve?

Your sick visit always involves an in-depth evaluation where the Michigan Avenue Primary Care team takes time to discuss your current concerns and symptoms and answer your questions. They might perform a physical exam and recommend specific tests, such as an X-ray or blood work.

After obtaining a clear picture of your overall health and symptoms, the team determines the best treatments to give you relief and improve your health and wellness quickly.

At sick visits, treatment methods include lifestyle changes like specialized exercises, nutritional counseling, stress management, and medications such as anti-inflammatories and antivirals.

When the time comes and you need a sick visit, you’ve found the right place for compassionate and exceptional care at Michigan Avenue Primary Care. Call the office to request an appointment or reach out online today.