Why might you need an urgent care center this winter? Even though you can visit one of these medical clinics any time of the year, the winter months often bring in more patients. If you're not sure why you might need this type of non-emergency healthcare, take a look at the top reasons to visit an urgent care clinic this winter. 

Winter-Time Viral Infections

Now that the weather is colder, you're spending more time indoors—and so is everyone else. The close quarters and recirculated air can easily spread common viral infections, such as the cold, the flu, and Covid-19. 

If you have a runny/stuffy nose, a sore throat, body aches, a headache, and a fever, you need to see a medical professional for a diagnosis and treatment. While mild symptoms won't require a trip to the emergency room, you may not want to wait for an appointment at your primary care physician's office. If your regular PCP can't fit you in immediately, an urgent care clinic can help. 

Not only can a medical provider at the clinic examine you, but they can also recommend tests to confirm or rule out specific types of infections. This can help the provider to diagnose your illness and distinguish between viral and bacterial infections (such as strep throat). 

While you might not need an ER for minor cold or flu symptoms, shortness of breath, high fever, the inability to keep down food or liquids, and other severe issues do require immediate emergency medical attention. 

Winter-Time Sprains and Strains

The summer isn't the only time physical activity can result in sprains or strains. Ice skating, skiing, sledding, and snowboarding are winter-time adventures that can lead to everything from a sprained ankle to a broken bone. Along with activity-related injuries, the risk for outdoor slip and falls increases during the snowy and icy winter months.

Again, some severe issues may require emergency care that you just can't get at a clinic. If you're not sure where to go or which type of medical professional to see, contact your local ER immediately.

Most urgent care centers see patients for mild sprains, strains, bruises, cuts that only require a few stitches, and other similar winter-related mishaps. The medical team at the clinic can examine the injury, recommend imaging tests, and possibly even X-ray the area for you. The clinic medical providers can also stitch smaller-sized cuts and provide splints.  

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