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Hand, foot, and mouth disease, or HFMD, is a common illness that primarily affects young children. However, adults can also contract this viral infection and suffer from its uncomfortable symptoms. 

It is easy for HFMD to spread through contact with sick people, contaminated objects, or body fluids. This is why it is crucial to take precautions as an adult to safeguard yourself from HFMD.

In this article, we will explore more about HFMD, its symptoms, some tips to help you stay safe, and how to maintain a healthy immune system. By following these simple steps, you can reduce your risk of contracting HFMD and keep yourself and those around you healthy and safe.

What does hand, foot, mouth disease look like in adults?

HFMD in adults can look similar to the infection in children. The first symptoms of HFMD in adults are usually fever, sore throat, and a general feeling of malaise. This is followed by the appearance of small, red blisters on the hands, feet, and mouth.

It may be uncomfortable to eat or drink because of the blisters. Blisters on the hands and feet can occasionally grow large and painful, making it hard to walk or use the hands. The blisters in the mouth can also become numerous and painful, making it difficult to eat or drink.

Adults with HFMD may also have additional symptoms such as weariness, body pains, and headaches. Adults who believe they may have HFMD should consult a doctor to confirm the diagnosis and obtain the proper care.

How long does the hand, foot, and mouth last in adults?

HFMD is a viral infection that can last up to ten days in adults. The duration of the infection can vary depending on the severity of the symptoms and the individual’s immune system. Symptoms usually appear within three to seven days after exposure to the virus and can last for up to two weeks.

It is important to note that even after the symptoms have subsided, the virus can still be present in the body and can be contagious for up to several weeks. Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures to avoid spreading the virus to others.

How does hand, foot, and mouth progress in adults?

HFMD in adults can progress rapidly, especially if the immune system is compromised. The virus can quickly spread to other parts of the body, causing more severe symptoms. 

In some cases, the blisters on the hands and feet may become large and painful, making it difficult to walk or use the hands. The blisters in the mouth can also become numerous and painful, making it difficult to eat or drink.

Adults with HFMD may, in extreme situations, develop more serious complications, including meningitis or encephalitis, which can be fatal. These problems, however rare, typically arise in people with compromised immune systems.

Is hand, foot, and mouth disease more serious in adults?

HFMD is typically more severe in young children than in adults. However, adults can still experience uncomfortable symptoms and complications from the infection. 

Adults with compromised immune systems, such as those with cancer or HIV, are more likely to experience problems with HFMD. These people could have more serious symptoms and take longer to get better from the virus.

It is important for adults to take preventive measures to avoid contracting HFMD, especially if they are at a higher risk of developing complications.

How do you know when Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease is no longer contagious?

Adults who have contracted HFMD can be contagious for up to several weeks after the symptoms have subsided. The virus can be present in the body for an extended period of time and can be spread through close contact with others. 

This is why it is important for adults who have contracted HFMD to take preventive measures to avoid spreading the virus to others.

Get the best medical care for your needs

Urgentcare MDs is staffed with skilled physicians and other medical experts that have a wide range of skills to help with your medical needs, whether you’re looking for excellent care for your medical requirements or guidance from a qualified practitioner regarding HFMD symptoms or other related cases.

To send an inquiry or to book a consultation, you can send an inquiry via our contact us form, call us at (281) 428-0000, or visit one of our clinics near you: 

• Baytown urgent care
• Crosby urgent care

We are open evenings and weekends and accept walk-in patients, so if you have an injury that requires attention, we can help! 

We also offer primary care services. Our primary care doctors in Baytown TX, are highly-trained in diagnosing and treating a full spectrum of healthcare conditions as well as preventing them.

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

Antibiotics are one of the most widely used medications in the world today. The use of antibiotics is extremely effective at fighting off bacterial infections and have saved countless lives over the years. 

However, the overuse of antibiotics can have some serious side effects. Though most of these side effects are not life-threatening, overuse of antibiotics may cause severe side effects in some people that require medical attention.

In this blog, we will take a closer look at the potential side effects of overusing antibiotics and what you can do to make sure you are using them safely and correctly.

How do antibiotics work? 

Antibiotics are medications used to fight bacterial infections in the body. They work by either interfering with the bacteria’s ability to produce proteins necessary for its survival or by destroying the bacteria’s cell walls. By reducing or eliminating the bacteria, antibiotics can help rid the body of infections and improve overall health.

Can taking too many antibiotics be harmful?

The overuse of antibiotics is becoming an increasingly serious problem that can have alarming consequences. While antibiotics are a powerful tool in treating bacterial infections, too much intake can have a detrimental effect on your health.

Antibiotic overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance, causing the drugs to become less effective, as well as a variety of other serious health problems such as Clostridium difficile infections, yeast infections, and allergic reactions. To reduce your risk of antibiotic resistance and other health problems, it is important to use antibiotics only when absolutely essential and necessary.

Side effects of too many antibiotics in the body

The short-term and long-term side effects associated with antibiotics are outliend below.

• Short-term effects of overusing antibiotics

Antibiotics are a powerful form of medicine used to fight bacterial infections. Unfortunately, even with the best intentions, overuse of antibiotics can have serious short-term effects on the body.

• Upset stomach – This side effect is due to a disruption of the bacteria in the gut, known as dysbiosis. This can lead to bloating, diarrhea, and constipation. Antibiotics can also cause allergic reactions, such as rashes, hives, itching, and swelling.

• Allergic reactions – These reactions can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylactic shock. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of allergic reactions and be aware of the treatments involved.

• Decrease in the number of healthy bacteria in the body – Excessive use of antibiotics can reduce the body’s ability to fight off infections, as well as affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals.

• Long-term effects of overusing antibiotics

While the short-term effects of antibiotics can be unpleasant, the long-term effects can be even more serious:

• Antibiotic resistance – When antibiotics are overused, some bacteria can become resistant to the medication, making it difficult to treat infections. This can lead to prolonged illnesses, as well as more serious infections.

• Clostridium difficile (C. diff) – Long-term use of antibiotics can increase the risk of certain infections, such as C. diff. It is a dangerous intestinal infection that can cause severe diarrhea and, in some cases, even death.

• Drug-resistant infections – Long-term use of antibiotics can also increase the risk for drug-resistant infections. This means that the infection will not respond to the antibiotics and will require more powerful medications to treat it.

• Kidney disease – The overuse of antibiotics can lead to an overload of toxins in the body, which can damage the kidneys. These toxins can come from the antibiotics themselves, as well as from food and water that has been contaminated with antibiotics.

When taking antibiotics, it is important to follow the instructions and guidelines of your doctor. This will help to ensure that the medication is used effectively, and will reduce the risk of developing these short and long term side effects.

Recommendations for the appropriate use of antibiotics

To ensure that antibiotics are used effectively and appropriately, here are some recommendations for their use.

1. Take antibiotics only when prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication can lead to antibiotic resistance, as well as other health problems.

2. Follow the instructions of your doctor when taking antibiotics. Don’t skip doses and finish the course, even if you feel better.

3. Do not share antibiotics with another person, as they may not be suitable for them.

4. Do not take antibiotics to treat viral infections, as they are not effective against viral infections, so they should not be taken to treat colds and flu.

5. Do not take antibiotics unnecessarily, such as for a mild sore throat or a mild ear infection.

6. Do not take antibiotics for a long time. It can lead to antibiotic resistance. Take them only as long as prescribed by your doctor.

7. Do not save antibiotics for later use as antibiotics can lose their effectiveness over time.

By following these recommendations, you can help reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance and other health problems. Always speak to your doctor before taking antibiotics, and follow the instructions given to you.

Get quality care for your medical needs

If you are seeking quality care for your medical needs, or if you are seeking advice from a licensed practitioner in relation to your antibiotic intake, Urgentcare MDs is staffed with experienced doctors and medical professionals that have a broad variety of expertise to assist your medical needs. 

For medical consultations, you can visit our clinic at: 

• Urgent care Baytown
• Urgent care Crosby

Also, our primary care physician in Baytown, Tx provides primary care for patients of all ages.

You can send an inquiry via our contact us form or call us at (281) 428-0000. 

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health. 

Flu (influenza) is a contagious condition that affects the respiratory system. The flu is different from a cold and typically manifests abruptly. Symptoms include fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, dry cough, muscle aches, and fatigue. Other viruses can cause similar symptoms to the flu, such as the common cold, which is caused by a different virus. However, the flu is more severe and lasts longer than a cold.

Flu season usually starts in October and goes through to May, usually peaking between December or February. In the US, there has been a surge in respiratory syncytial virus or RSV and the flu. In fact, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has estimated that a total of 13 million people have been afflicted with the flu this season, resulting in 120,000 hospitalizations and 7,300 deaths.

Types of Influenza Viruses

Influenza viruses are divided into four types: A, B, C, and D. Learn about flu strains, and how they affect people:

• Type A—These are the most common types of flu viruses and are the ones responsible for the majority of human flu cases. Type A viruses are classified into subtypes by examining the two proteins which cover the outer layer of the virus, namely hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). The subtype of Type A influenza is determined by the combination of 18 different H proteins and 11 different N proteins. An example of this is H1N1.
• Type B—These are less common than Type A and are primarily responsible for localized outbreaks and seasonal epidemics. Type B influenza viruses are usually less severe than Type A and typically cause milder symptoms. Unlike Type A, Type B viruses do not have subtypes.

• Type C—These are relatively rare and typically lead to mild respiratory issues in humans. Unlike Types A and B, Type C influenza viruses do not cause widespread outbreaks or epidemics in humans.
• Type D—They have only recently been discovered and are not known to cause illness in humans. Type D viruses are primarily found in cattle and are believed to be capable of infecting humans, although no human infections have been reported so far.

Influenza viruses are constantly changing, and new strains may emerge over time. It is important to get vaccinated against influenza every year to protect against the most current strains of the virus. Haven’t had your flu shot yet? Find a clinic that provides flu shots in Bayton, Tx.

Flu Prevention Tips

Below, you will find helpful tips and resources to help you become aware of the steps you can take to guard yourself and others against the flu, and to help put an end to the transmission of germs.

1. Wash your hands: To guard yourself from the flu, it is important to frequently wash your hands with soap and water. Make sure to rub the soap onto your skin for a minimum of 20 seconds.
2. Avoid close contact: If you’re around someone who is sick, try to maintain a distance of at least six feet. This will help reduce your risk of catching their germs.
3. Avoid touching your face: Germs can easily be spread from your hands to your eyes, nose, or mouth. To prevent the spread of germs, it is important to avoid touching your face without washing your hands.
4. Disinfect surfaces: Be sure to sanitize surfaces that are regularly handled, like door handles and worktops. This will help stop the transmission of germs.
5. Practice good health habits: Eating a healthy diet, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and managing stress can help keep your immune system strong and protect you from getting sick.
6. Get vaccinated: One of the most effective ways to prevent the flu is to receive a flu shot. Doing so will enable your body to make antibodies that guard against the influenza virus.

Vaccination is the Best Protection

Vaccination is the best protection against flu and other viruses. Vaccines work by introducing a small amount of a weakened or inactivated form of a virus or bacteria into the body. The body then recognizes the virus or bacteria and produces antibodies to fight it. If a person is exposed to the virus or bacteria in the future, the body is able to recognize it and fight it off quickly.

Vaccines are available for a variety of viruses and bacteria, including the flu, measles, mumps, rubella, pertussis, rotavirus, and more. It’s important to get vaccinated according to the recommended schedule.

Getting vaccinated is especially important for children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems. It’s also important for people who are at an increased risk of complications from certain illnesses, such as people with chronic conditions, healthcare workers, and people who live in long-term care facilities. If you are in need of flu vaccine or any urgent medical care, Urgentcare MDs clinics are always available to assist you.

Benefits of Getting a Vaccine

The flu vaccine, also known as the influenza vaccine, is an important form of preventive healthcare that can offer numerous benefits to those who receive it including: 

• Prevent the spread of the influenza virus
• Reduces the risk of getting the flu by 70-90%
• Helps the body build immunity to the virus
• Help protect your families and communities from the flu
• Less likely to experience severe symptoms and complications
• Reduces the risk of hospitalization linked to flu
• Prevent deaths related to flu

Where to get a flu vaccine in Baytown, Tx? 

If you are looking for a trusted clinic that offers flu vaccines in Bayton, Tx, look no further. UrgentCareMDs specializes in the treatment of emergencies, ailments, and injuries. We take pride in providing our patients with accurate diagnoses and treatments, including flu vaccine, covid testing, x-rays, and more.

If you require medical advice, you can come and visit our offices for a consultation:

• Urgent care in Bayton
• Urgent care in Crosby
• Primary care in Baytown

Contact us today for any inquiries, or to schedule an appointment. We are here to assist you in leading a healthier lifestyle!

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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared the monkeypox outbreak a global health emergency. It comes following an increase in worldwide occurrences. According to the WHO, more than 16,000 cases have now been recorded in 75 countries.

What is monkeypox, and where does it come from?

Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that occurs mainly in central and western Africa. 

The Monkeypox virus is similar to, but not the same as, the smallpox virus. Monkeypox was first identified in 1958 when it caused an illness outbreak in laboratory monkeys. 

In humans, the symptoms of Monkeypox are similar to those of smallpox, although they are usually milder. There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, and there is no vaccine available. 

In this blog post, we will take a look at what you need to know about Monkeypox, including its symptoms, how it is spread, and prevention tips. So read on for all you need to know about this little-known but potentially deadly virus.

What are the symptoms of Monkeypox?

Monkeypox is a viral disease that is characterized by a rash and fever. 

The incubation period (the time from exposure to illness) for Monkeypox is usually between 5 and 21 days but can be as short as two days or as long as 42 days. 

The infection typically starts with a fever, headache, muscle aches, and fatigue. This is followed by the development of a rash that begins on the face and spreads to other body parts. The rash consists of smallpox-like bumps that eventually turn into pus-filled blisters. 

The illness usually lasts 2-4 weeks, after which most people recover fully. However, in some cases, monkeypox can be fatal.

How is Monkeypox spread?

Monkeypox is spread through contact with an infected animal’s skin or bodily fluids, usually a monkey, rat, or squirrel. The virus can also be spread through the air by coughing or sneezing. In the USA, the first case of monkeypox was reported in September 2018. 

Monkeypox can also be spread through contact with contaminated bedding or clothing. It is not yet clear how the virus spreads from animals to humans, but it is thought that direct contact with an infected animal, or contact with the animal’s bedding or clothing, is the most likely route of transmission.

Once a person is infected with monkeypox, the virus can spread from person to person through close contacts, such as touching or hugging, or through contact with infected body fluids, such as blood, saliva, or mucus.

Transmission of infection from person to person most often occurs when contact with respiratory emissions, skin problems, or unclean objects is involved. 

Infection via respiratory particles generally necessitates prolonged face-to-face contact, putting health workers, family members, and other close contacts of active cases at increased risk.

However, the longest known chain of transmission in a community now extends from 6 to 9 person-to-person infections. The decrease in smallpox vaccination may be affecting everyone’s immunity. 

Maternal-fetal transmission through the placenta (which can cause congenital Monkeypox) or during close contact at and after delivery may also result in transmission. 

There is still much to learn about Monkeypox, although physical contact is a well-known risk factor for its spread.

How to prevent yourself from getting infected with Monkeypox?

Avoiding contact with infected animals or people is the best way to prevent monkeypox. 

If you must handle an infected animal, wear gloves, a mask, and protective clothing. If you live in an area where Monkeypox is found, avoid contact with wild animals and report any sick animals to your local health authorities.

Is there a vaccine for Monkeypox?

There is no specific vaccine available to protect against Monkeypox. However, the smallpox vaccine is effective in protecting against Monkeypox. 

The smallpox vaccine is no longer routinely given because smallpox has been eradicated. However, it is still available from the CDC in case of a bioterrorism attack.

What are the treatment options for Monkeypox?

There is no specific treatment for monkeypox, according to the CDC. However, early diagnosis and appropriate care can help lessen the illness’s severity and improve the chances of recovery. 

Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the patient through the course of the disease.

If you think you may have come into contact with monkeypox, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a big difference in the outcome of the illness.

UrgentCare MDs for all your medical needs

At UrgentCare MDs, we are always here to help. We treat a variety of emergencies, illnesses, and injuries. We are often the first point of contact when you have a health concern—including Monkeypox. 

We pride ourselves in accurately diagnosing and treating our patients. For medical consultations, you can visit:

• Urgent care in Baytown
• Urgent care in Crosby
• Primary care in Baytown 

Our experienced staff is ready to treat any acute illness or medical need that is not life-threatening.

Contact us today for any inquiries and to set an appointment. No matter your health needs,  we are here to provide the best care for our patients.

The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.