If you live in Florida, you know it’s mostly sunny and hot. This makes it hard to believe that winter exists here. However, certain things that shouldn’t be overlooked happen during wintertime in Florida. These include common winter diseases you must watch out for if you live here. It’s always good to be prepared for these things, especially since many people get sick in winter and require family health care.
Norovirus or the Stomach Flu
Norovirus is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Those infected with this virus usually have symptoms of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. However, some people may not have any symptoms, while others may experience mild symptoms such as headaches, muscle aches, fever, chills, or fatigue. Most people infected with norovirus will recover completely within one to three days without any treatment. In some cases, however, it can lead to severe complications if urgent treatment is not sought immediately after contracting the disease.
The Flu
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. The flu can be severe, especially for people at high risk of serious complications from influenza.
The flu typically causes fever, headache, dry cough, and extreme fatigue. Some people may also have muscle aches, sore throat, nasal congestion, and diarrhea. The symptoms can begin one day or as many as four days after exposure to the virus.
If you have been exposed to the virus and have flu symptoms, consider urgent care treatments during your first 24 hours of illness. This will allow doctors in the family health care center to test your blood for the influenza virus and start antiviral treatment early if needed.
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that causes inflammation and fluid buildup in the air sacs (alveoli). Infections can be bacterial or viral and are usually caused by inhaling contaminated droplets from the air. Pneumonia differs from a cold because it can cause more severe symptoms. These symptoms may come on quickly or slowly over several days.
If you have symptoms of pneumonia such as shortness of breath, fever, or chest pains combined with difficulty breathing after exercising, seek help from a family healthcare institution immediately for treatment with antibiotics to prevent worsening symptoms that can lead to hospitalization.
Bronchitis
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the airways in the lungs, which causes them to become congested. A viral infection usually causes bronchitis, but it can also be caused by bacterial or fungal infections. The symptoms of bronchitis include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
If you have been diagnosed with asthma or emphysema due to years of smoking, you should seek primary care in Deerfield Beach if your symptoms worsen during the winter months to prevent respiratory distress.
Colds
Colds are caused by viruses that spread quickly through coughing, sneezing, and breathing. The most common virus causing colds is rhinovirus, but it’s not the only one. Other viruses that can cause cold symptoms include adenovirus, coronavirus, and enteroviruses.
A cold is usually gone within two weeks, with no antibiotics required. But if symptoms like a sore throat or stuffy nose last longer than ten days or worsen, get primary care in Deerfield Beach.
While it is hard to escape the winter, there are some common diseases we can avoid if we are on top of things. With the rapid advancement in medical technology, doctors have been able to diagnose more than they could in the past. Treatments have also improved. This, combined with early detection, makes it possible to stay healthy year-round. In case you need urgent healthcare services in Deerfield Beach, contact Hillsboro Urgent Care Clinic today.
