Acute Illness

An acute illness makes you feel miserable and drains your energy. You could also have an infection that spreads quickly to others. That’s why Lembi Che, DNP, FNP-BC, at Fountain Hills Medical & Home Health Agency provides comprehensive care in the comfort of your home and through telehealth appointments. If you need prompt treatment for an acute illness, don’t wait to schedule an appointment by calling the office in Lewiston, Idaho, or requesting an appointment online today. 

What is an acute illness?

An acute illness occurs quickly and causes symptoms that usually need prompt medical attention to diagnose the problem and provide treatment to relieve your symptoms.

Acute illnesses last a short time, healing within a few weeks after running their course or responding to treatment. After you heal, you no longer need medical care for the problem.

When are the most common acute illnesses?

At Fountain Hills Medical & Home Health Agency, Dr. Che provides compassionate and comprehensive care to people of all ages.

Though they have experience caring for the full range of acute illnesses and minor injuries, these are some of the most common acute illnesses they treat:

• Seasonal flu
• Sore throat
• Common colds
• COVID-19
• Infections (eyes, ears, nose, throat, and lungs)
• Skin rash
• Earaches 
• Stomach aches
• Abdominal pain
• Severe headaches and migraines
• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Dr. Che also treats minor injuries, such as cuts and sprains. Call Fountain Hills Medical whenever you feel sick or have questions about when to seek treatment.

What symptoms does an acute illness cause?

Acute conditions usually have sudden, noticeable symptoms that cause moderate to severe pain or discomfort. For example, strep throat causes a sudden, excruciatingly sore throat, making it hard to swallow.

Common symptoms include:

• Coughing
• Sneezing
• Wheezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Earache
• Stomachache
• Body aches
• Swelling
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Rash
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

A fever is a sign that your body is working to fight a viral or bacterial infection. Fevers should improve in a few days. While they last, they may cause symptoms such as chills, shivering, sweating, and muscle aches.

How is an acute illness treated?

You may only need to take over-the-counter medications to ease your symptoms. Getting enough rest and drinking fluids is also essential. Topical lotions and creams relieve the itch of a rash and help skin conditions heal.

Dr. Che may prescribe medications to shorten your illness and relieve your symptoms. Depending on the underlying condition, you may need antivirals, antibiotics, antihistamines, or decongestants.

Do I have to visit the office for an acute illness?

Dr. Che provides home health care and telehealth appointments so you can get the medical treatment you need without traveling to a medical clinic.

When you need prompt care for an acute illness, call Fountain Hills Medical & Home Health Agency or request an appointment online today.