Primary Care

Allergies are a common ailment affecting millions of people worldwide. It is a reaction of the immune system to substances in the environment that are usually harmless.

These harmless substances, called allergens, can trigger a series of symptoms such as:

• Sneezing
• Runny nose
• Itchy eyes
• Skin rash

Common allergens include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, insect bites, and certain foods.

Allergies can range from mild and irritating to life-threatening, and their severity varies from person to person. If you suspect you have allergies, it is vital to seek medical advice to ensure proper diagnosis and management of your symptoms.

Have you ever woken up with red, itchy eyes? It's possible you may have had conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye.

This common eye condition occurs when the thin, clear membrane that covers the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelid becomes inflamed. Conjunctivitis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, or even a chemical irritant. While it's not usually a serious condition, conjunctivitis can be uncomfortable and highly contagious.

If you suspect you may have pink eye, be sure to see your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

A chronic cough can be described as an ongoing cough that lasts for eight weeks or longer. While coughing is normal and often occurs when you have a cold or allergy, a persistent cough can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

In order to properly diagnose a chronic cough, it's important to be aware of other factors, such as:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Wheezing
• Difficulty swallowing

If you're experiencing a persistent cough or have other respiratory symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention to determine their underlying cause and receive proper treatment.

Influenza, often referred to as the flu, is a common respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses. It typically presents itself with a sudden onset of symptoms such as:

• Fever
• Body aches
• Fatigue
• Sore throat

Despite being a well-known and wide-spread illness, influenza is not something to be taken lightly, as it can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia. The best way to prevent the flu is through vaccination, as well as practicing good hygiene habits such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding contact with sick individuals.

If you do happen to catch the flu, it is important to rest, stay hydrated, and seek medical attention if necessary.

Sprains and strains refer to injuries in the soft tissue of the body and can happen to anyone at any time. A sprain typically occurs when a ligament is stretched or torn, while a strain arises when a muscle or tendon is damaged in a similar manner.

These types of injuries can be quite painful and can often lead to imbalances in the body that may take time to repair. While there are many different causes of sprains and strains, from sports injuries to accidents in the workplace, it's essential to seek medical advice as soon as possible if you experience any symptoms.

Pneumonia is a respiratory disease that can be severe, especially for those with weaker immune systems. Though it has a reputation of being a relatively common and harmless ailment, pneumonia can quickly escalate and become a serious threat. Pneumonia can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi, and is typically characterized by symptoms such as:

• Coughing
• Fever
• Shortness of breath
• Mucus

The illness typically affects the air sacs in the lungs, causing them to fill with fluid and making it difficult for the body to breathe. While pneumonia can be treated with antibiotics or antifungal medicines, it's essential to get diagnosed quickly to avoid complications. So, if you have a persistent cough, fatigue, or difficulty breathing, it's best to consult a medical professional like Nurse Pracitioner, Crystal Capler, as soon as possible.