Acute Illness

If you have an acute illness, like COVID-19 or the seasonal flu, seek treatment immediately. Intervention can prevent the infection from spreading and help you feel better. At LiveMed, board-certified internal medicine physician Saamer Siddiqi, MD, and the team offer same-day diagnosis and treatment for acute illnesses. They can help whether you’re experiencing gastrointestinal problems or a high fever. Call the office to receive treatment for an acute illness, or book an appointment online today.

What is an acute illness?

An acute illness is a disease that develops rapidly and resolves within a few weeks. Often, they’re caused by contagious pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria, or fungi.

Acute illnesses typically improve with rest and at-home treatments, but if your symptoms continue or worsen, contact LiveMed. The team can identify the underlying cause and make treatment recommendations.

What are some examples of acute illnesses?

At LiveMed, the team diagnoses and treats various acute illnesses, including:

• COVID-19
• Common cold
• Seasonal flu
• Sore throat
• Urinary tract infections (UTI)
• Asthma
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation
• Acute bronchitis
• Allergies
• Skin infections
• Pneumonia
• Ear infections
• Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
• Rashes
• Anxiety/panic attacks

You should also seek treatment for an acute illness if you have gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting, lasting more than a day or two.

When should I see a doctor about an acute illness?

Make an appointment with the team at LiveMed if you have symptoms of an acute illness, like a cough, a sore throat, or a mild fever, and they don’t improve in 3-4 days. That’s especially true if the fever rises or your symptoms worsen and affect your sleep or quality of life.

How is an acute illness diagnosed?

At LiveMed, an acute illness consultation costs $59.99.

Your provider reviews your medical charts, asks about your symptoms, and completes a physical exam. They listen to your heart and respiratory rate, take your temperature and check your eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Your provider might also order lab tests, like bloodwork, urinalysis, or culture, to determine if you’re contagious.

After confirming a diagnosis, the team makes treatment recommendations.

How is an acute illness treated?

Treatment of an acute illness depends on your age, the severity of your symptoms, and your general health. The LiveMed team might recommend:

• Prescription antibiotics
• Antiviral medication
• Rest
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Taking over-the-counter medication
• Prescription inhaler
• Topical ointments
• Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants

The goal is to relieve uncomfortable symptoms as quickly as possible and encourage your body’s healing process. 

Can acute illnesses be prevented?

You can reduce the risk of acute illness by practicing good hygiene. The team at LiveMed recommends getting vaccinated, washing your hands regularly with soap and warm water, and avoiding high-touch surfaces, such as doorknobs and elevator buttons.

Call LiveMed to receive treatment for an acute illness, or use the online booking feature today.