COVID-19 manifests symptoms similar to bronchitis, pneumonia, and RSV, making it challenging to distinguish between them. At Vital Urgent Care, we offer comprehensive evaluations, testing, and treatment for COVID-19 to alleviate any concerns and facilitate your recovery journey. After a thorough evaluation by our medical professionals, you may undergo a COVID-19 test, enabling us to determine the most suitable treatment plan, whether it be for a traditional respiratory illness or COVID-19.
In addition to COVID-19, respiratory illnesses such as RSV, bronchitis, and pneumonia can cause persistent coughing and discomfort. Our compassionate medical providers specialize in diagnosing and recommending appropriate treatment options to alleviate your symptoms. If required, we will also refer you to specialized care for further assistance.
Let's delve into the specifics of bronchitis and pneumonia:
Bronchitis refers to the inflammation of the bronchial tubes responsible for carrying air to the lungs. There are two types: acute and chronic. Acute bronchitis often results from a viral infection, such as a cold, and may lead to a lingering cough for several weeks. On the other hand, chronic bronchitis, typically caused by smoking, involves constant inflammation of the bronchial tubes lasting at least three months. Recurring bouts of coughing persist for at least two consecutive years in individuals with chronic bronchitis.
Both acute and chronic bronchitis share common symptoms, including:
At Vital Urgent Care, our medical team diagnoses bronchitis through a comprehensive medical history review and physical examination. The healthcare professional will attentively listen to your lungs and upper airways using a stethoscope. In most cases, tests are unnecessary for diagnosing acute bronchitis. However, suspected chronic bronchitis may require a chest X-ray, which we conveniently offer on-site for your convenience.
Treatment for acute bronchitis typically involves rest, fluid intake, and avoiding secondhand smoke and other irritants. Pain and discomfort can be managed with ibuprofen or acetaminophen, while bronchodilators may be prescribed to help open up airways. Cough suppressants or other medications may also be recommended for symptom relief. For chronic bronchitis, our dedicated providers will help you coordinate ongoing care with your primary care physician or a pulmonologist. This may include developing a treatment plan and potentially participating in pulmonary rehabilitation to slow down disease progression.
Pneumonia is a respiratory infection affecting the lungs, which can impact one or both lungs. While bacterial infections are the most common cause, pneumonia can also be caused by viruses, fungi, or parasites. This infection leads to inflammation in the lungs, causing the air sacs (alveoli) to fill with fluid or mucus. Consequently, breathing becomes difficult, and the lungs have limited capacity to take in oxygen.
Pneumonia symptoms can vary in severity, ranging from mild to severe. Although mild symptoms may resemble those of a common cold or flu, they persist for a longer duration. Common symptoms include:
At Vital Urgent Care, we are committed to providing exceptional care and accurate diagnoses for respiratory illnesses. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about your respiratory health, our caring team is here to assist you.
To diagnose pneumonia, healthcare professionals such as physicians, physician assistants, or nurse practitioners will gather your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination, including attentive auscultation of your lungs using a stethoscope. If pneumonia is suspected, a chest X-ray is usually performed to assess the extent and location of the infection. Additionally, blood or sputum tests may be conducted to identify the underlying cause.
For most cases of pneumonia, effective treatment can be administered at home through medication. However, in severe instances, hospitalization may be necessary. At Vital Urgent Care, our medical team customizes the treatment plan based on the specific type and severity of pneumonia. Antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial pneumonia, while a cough suppressant may be recommended to alleviate coughing and promote restful sleep. To alleviate pain and discomfort, over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be taken.
During the recovery phase, incorporating certain lifestyle practices can aid in a quicker recuperation:
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) primarily affects the lungs and respiratory tract and is a common cause of lower respiratory tract infections in children. It accounts for over 2 million yearly outpatient visits in children under 5 years old. RSV infections typically occur during the fall, winter, and spring seasons. The virus spreads through direct contact or inhalation of droplets from sneezes and coughs. Practicing good hand hygiene, using hand sanitizers, and regularly disinfecting surfaces can help prevent or slow down the spread of RSV.
RSV symptoms include a runny nose, cough, low-grade fever, sore throat, and mild headache. Most cases of RSV are mild; however, the following symptoms may indicate a more severe illness:
RSV is typically diagnosed based on medical history and physical examination. Symptomatic treatment measures include rest, maintaining hydration, keeping the affected person upright as much as possible, using a humidifier or cool mist vaporizer to moisten the air, employing saline drips or nasal rinses to alleviate sinus congestion, managing pain with ibuprofen or acetaminophen, and avoiding exposure to cigarette smoke. Inhaled medications may be prescribed to help open airways. Recovery from RSV usually takes a couple of weeks, but hospitalization may be required depending on the age and severity of symptoms. It's important to note that individuals infected with RSV are most contagious within the first few days, but they can potentially spread the virus for several weeks after symptoms appear.
A provider at Vital Urgent Care will evaluate your condition and administer appropriate treatment if necessary. In cases requiring specialized care, a referral to a specialist may be recommended. Medications, if deemed necessary by the provider, will be prescribed and sent directly to your preferred pharmacy. We recommend initiation of COVID-19-specific therapy, such as Paxlovid, for certain symptomatic adult patients with mild to moderate COVID-19 who are at an increased risk of developing severe disease. This includes individuals based on factors such as older age, immune status, COVID-19 vaccination history, and comorbidities like obesity, chronic lung disease, heart disease, age over 65, and certain disabilities. Treatment should commence as soon as possible after a COVID-19 diagnosis and within 5 days of symptom onset. Paxlovid is a prescription medication and is only available with a prescription.