Do You Have a Cough You Just Can’t Shake?

June 12, 2017

Many patients per year visit Quick Care Med for respiratory illnesses. This is not surprising as, according to WebMD, tens of millions of Americans suffer from some type of lung disease.

Our lungs are a vital part of our body system, filling and contracting thousands of times per day. It’s no wonder that the lungs, and the tubes that connect them to other parts of the body, often become inflamed or sick.

Respiratory illnesses can range from a viral infection – such as a cold, the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), or an upper respiratory infection – to bronchitis, asthma, or pneumonia. On rare occasions, more serious illnesses can be present. Whatever the cause, some respiratory illnesses can worsen over time without treatment, so if you suspect something is wrong, come in to see a Quick Care Med provider right away.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections

Upper Respiratory Tract Infections are the number one reason people seek medical treatment in the US, and result in the highest number of missed days from work or school (Medicinenet.com). Common symptoms include runny nose, sore throat, cough, and sometimes feeling tired or unable to take deep breaths. These viral infections are most common between September and March, and symptoms usually last 3 – 14 days.
Because this illness is a viral infection, antibiotics will not help. It is best to treat the symptoms, and get plenty of rest – which your body needs to heal itself. Treatments you might try include:
• Over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help with body aches and sore throat
• Decongestants or antihistamines for the nasal drainage
• Cough medicine
• Nasal spray or saline drops
• Steam from the shower
• Honey
• Salt-water gargles
• Drinking plenty of fluids, including warm beverages that can soothe the throat
• Sleeping in a semi-propped-up position can help with nighttime coughing
Upper Respiratory Tract infections are contagious, so limit contact with loved ones to avoid spreading the illness

Bronchitis

If your cough gets worse or won’t go away, or if you begin wheezing, you might have developed bronchitis. Bronchitis occurs when your bronchial tubes, whose job it is to carry oxygen to your lungs from your windpipe, become inflamed and coated with mucus.
Bronchitis can be viral, and will need to be treated like an upper respiratory tract infection, or may be caused by a bacterial infection and require antibiotics. Only an examination from a medical professional can determine your diagnosis, and offer treatment options.

Pneumonia

If you develop chest pain, shortness of breath, a productive cough, fever, or fatigue, you could have pneumonia – an infection in one or both lungs that causes the tiny air sacs, known as alveoli, to fill with mucus or fluid. This makes it more difficult to be able to take deep breaths.
Pneumonia is usually a bacterial infection, but can be viral as well. A Quick Care Med medical professional can do a thorough assessment of your situation to determine the best course of treatment.
Whatever the type of respiratory illness, it is important to get plenty of rest, drink lots of non-caffeinated fluids, and avoid smoking or being around 2nd hand smoke.

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The entire staff was very caring. I had my toddler with me and she was a bit rowdy and they gave her crayons with coloring pages and stickers and even a lollipop to help keep her occupied.

Tanya C.

My son scribbled on a piece of paper and handed it to one of the woman in the front, saying that is say how his ears hurt, she accepted it and posted it on the artwork wall, when the PA came in to see him he was made to feel like a big deal because he had known about the paper. This is a place where the staff really cares about their patients and go the extra mile for them

Ron M.

Have been there a few times and hey have always been very fast, kind, courteous and welcoming. Always very helpful especially the front desk. The employee Heather helped me with pharmacy, paperwork and everything I needed help with. Only quick care I go too because of her.

Sapphire B.

I absolutely love our nurse Tiffany. She made our visit so comfortable. I had two very sick little boys who did not want to go to the Dr. She made the at ease in an instant and she took such great care of them. This was at the Quick care on 441 in Ocala Fl. I'll go back to this one because of her. And recommended to all my friends and family. Thanks so much!

Ray L

A Big THANK YOU, to the Staff at Quick Care Med, in Dunnellon!! My Husband was seen, for a couple different ailments, during his visit,, and the Two Practitioners who worked with Him, were AWESOME! They treated my Big, 200 pound, 6 ft. "Baby",, with Respect, Dignity, and Professionalism, and just the right amount of Calming Firmness!! Lol... he's afraid of Needles, and Doctor Offices, in general and I must say, that GWEN, & DEBBIE, were very good to him! Prices for services rendered, were ve

Cindy J.

Great sweet people

Myranda W

I was there yesterday and I've never felt so shocked. The 3 girls I interacted with were the most pleasant and friendly caregivers I've ever dealt with. Idr the rep's name, but she was quick and prompt at taking all my info and with minimal Qs (kinda hard to answer when I have a cold), then Alexis took over. Very sympathetic, nice, and helpful. Then the physician saw me and was charismatic and very funny. Trying to keep me in good spirits. It was like all 3 were happy to be at their posts and to

Julio R

Anytime, we've ever been there, all of the physicians are very caring and helpful, they don't rush or make you feel unimportant... I wish we could have them as our GP

Di C.

Very friendly,professional. Very caring of patients.Victoria was excellent. Took time to listen and made you feel comfortable.

Breonna S

We had Zaib Kahn as the provider and NEVER have I seen such a good bedside manner, as they call it! AND he personally called this a.m. to ask how my husband is feeling! (The pharmacy was closed when we left the ofc., and they asked us to allow until 11 to pick up the RXs, but that's NOT YOUR fault ;D I'm thrilled w/ Mr. Kahn's service and may well use your clinic for ALL my medical needs!!!! THANK YOU

Frank R

Professional staff, caring and organized. Prompt service for DOT related visits.

John S

The absolute BEST! Everyone here is so nice! We've had to come in a few times & they've always taken great care of us. We're usually out within 20-30 min. All the girls up front are very nice & helpful (you don't find that too often), so is the girl that takes your vitals. Dr B is the amazing! He takes his time to listen to what's wrong & always has a big smile. If we could have this office as our primary care location we would

Ryan M

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