Acute diseases can develop suddenly, causing unpleasant, painful symptoms. It’s comforting to know that your doctor is an expert at diagnosis and treatment of acute diseases and can help you feel better.
There are many acute illnesses and diseases, and there are many causes. Acute illnesses and diseases can be caused by exposure to a virus, bacterial infection, fungal infection, allergy, and more. These are just a few of the most common acute illnesses and diseases and their treatments:
A cold or the flu, both of which are caused by exposure to a virus. You can help prevent catching the flu by getting your flu vaccine every year. If you get a cold or the flu, your doctor can prescribe medication to help limit your symptoms and the severity of illness. Medications may include antivirals, antihistamines, decongestants, and other medications.
An infection of the ears, eyes, nose, throat, or sinuses, which are caused by exposure to bacteria. Your doctor will order lab testing to identify the bacteria causing your infection. Antibiotic medication will be prescribed to kill the bacteria causing the infection. Palliative treatments may be recommended to help you feel better.
Stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, which can be caused by a wide variety of factors including diet or exposure to bacteria; your doctor may order lab testing to determine the presence of bacteria. Antibiotics or other medications may be prescribed to help you feel better.
There are a few acute symptoms which require emergency treatment. You should call emergency services if you experience:
- Chest pain, which could indicate heart problems
- Chest pain that radiates into your arm or neck, which could indicate a heart attack
- Difficulty breathing or shallow breathing, which could indicate an asthma attack
- Chronic, deep coughing, which could indicate bronchitis or pneumonia
- Sudden, sharp abdominal pain which could indicate appendicitis
Your doctor can help you get relief from an acute illness or disease. To learn more about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of acute illnesses and diseases, call your doctor today.