Acute Illness

When you have a mild cold, you may not even think about taking yourself to the doctor to get relief from your symptoms. But when an acute illness includes a fever or shortness of breath, it’s time to schedule a visit at Elam Health and Wellness in Dallas, Texas. Stephanie Opusunju, MD, takes a holistic approach to care and provides treatments to alleviate your acute symptoms and help you feel more like your usual self. Call the office or schedule an acute illness appointment online today.

What is an acute illness?

An acute illness is a health problem that happens quickly and usually resolves in a matter of days or a few weeks. These types of illnesses may develop from a viral or bacterial infection or a minor injury from an unexpected accident. 

Examples of acute illnesses include:

• Cold
• Flu 
• Sore throat
• Strep throat
• COVID-19
• Diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Urinary tract infection (UTI)
• Sprains and strains
• Minor cuts

Your acute illness may cause a range of symptoms that can be mild or severe. How an acute illness affects your general health and well-being depends on many factors, including your age, medical history, and the type of illness you have. 

When do I need medical care for an acute illness?

When you have mild symptoms, you may be able to manage your acute illness at home. However, Dr. Opusunju recommends you schedule an appointment at Elam Health and Wellness if your illness gets worse over time or lasts more than a week.

She also recommends you seek medical care for your acute illness if you have shortness of breath, a high fever, pain when swallowing, or persistent vomiting or diarrhea. These symptoms may be signs of a serious illness that may lead to other health complications. 

Dr. Opusunju also recommends you come in for care if you suspect you have the flu or COVID-19. She provides acute illness care for patients of all ages, ranging from age 4 through adults of all ages. 

What can I expect during an acute illness appointment?

You can expect patient-centered care for your acute illness at Elam Health and Wellness. Dr. Opusunju takes a holistic approach to health, assessing not only your physical well-being but also your emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being. 

During your acute illness appointment, Dr. Opusunju asks detailed questions about your symptoms, including when they started and how they’ve changed over time. She also reviews your medical history and the types of medications and supplements you take.

Dr. Opusunju runs various tests to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis, which may include testing for the flu, UTI, or strep throat. 

She makes recommendations for treatment specific to your diagnosis, which may include over-the-counter medication to manage symptoms or antibiotics to clear up a bacterial infection. Dr. Opusunju schedules follow-up appointments as needed to monitor your illness and adjust your treatment as needed.

An acute illness can leave you feeling drained and may benefit from medical care. Call Elam Health and Wellness or book an appointment online today.