What is a minor emergency?
The team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates provides treatment for a wide array of minor emergency medical situations at their office so you can feel safe and well-cared for. Common minor medical emergencies that benefit from a visit to the family practice include:
- Sprains and strains
- Minor lacerations that require stitches
- Prolonged fever
- Symptoms from a cold that last 10 or more days
- Flu
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Allergic reaction
- Skin rash
- Mild asthma attack
- Pain flare-up
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Headaches
- Sore throat
- Unexplained skin lesion
- Changes in blood sugar or blood pressure
The team may also be able to provide care for a minor fracture or dislocation and then offer a referral to a specialist if needed.
By treating minor emergencies at their office, the team has greater flexibility in scheduling and performing many of the necessary evaluations in a more timely manner, resulting in an expedited diagnosis and treatment at your primary care practice where you feel comfortable and safe.
When should I seek emergency medical care?
If you’re not certain whether your medical issue is a minor emergency or an urgent situation that requires emergency room care, contact Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates right away for guidance. In general, you should seek emergency medical care if you’re experiencing:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Stroke
- Excessive bleeding
- Vision changes
Any head trauma also requires emergency medical care. However, the team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates provides follow-up care to monitor your health and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
What can I expect during minor emergency treatment?
The team at Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates takes a proactive and preventive approach to care. In addition to reviewing your symptoms and need for minor emergency medical care, the team also discusses your medical history and medication use. To get to the root of your minor medical emergency, diagnostic tests may be requested, such as blood work, urinalysis, and/or X-rays.
Based on the information gathered during your evaluation, the team develops a personalized treatment plan, which may include:
- Stitches
- Casting
- Antibiotics
- Medication to alleviate symptoms
If needed, the team can refer you to specialists as well.
For management of your minor emergency from a team that goes above and beyond to make you feel comfortable, contact Dr. Bridget Bellingar DO & Associates by phone or online today.
