Most Common Reasons to Visit Urgent Care

Illnesses and injuries can hit when you least expect them. Maybe you have a deep cut, a worsening stomach bug, or a swollen ankle. Should you go to urgent care or wait for a primary care visit?

At Peaks Medical and Urgent Care in Dillon, Colorado, you have access to expert care during all of life’s surprises. Our physicians ensure that you get the care you need, whether it’s time for a routine physical exam or you’re dealing with a more urgent issue.

Knowing when to seek out urgent care can help you avoid complications and feel better faster. Here are the seven most common conditions we see that typically need prompt care.

1. Minor injuries

Accidents have a way of sneaking up on you — tripping on a step, slicing a finger, or taking a tumble on the trail. Whatever the cause, we’re equipped to handle it. We can stitch wounds, clean and dress scrapes, and even check for sprains or fractures with on-site X-rays and CT scans. 

2. Cold and flu symptoms

If your cough, fever, or body aches aren’t easing — or if they seem to be getting worse — don’t tough it out alone. Our team can run tests to confirm whether you’ve got the flu or another viral infection. We also prescribe medications if needed and offer supportive care, like fluids or fever reducers, to help you bounce back faster.

3. Stomach problems

Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea can leave you feeling weak and dehydrated. When those symptoms won’t quit, we can step in with solutions like anti-nausea medication or IV hydration to get you back on your feet. 

4. Urinary tract infections (UTIs)

Few things are as frustrating — or painful — as a UTI. If you’re experiencing burning, urgency, or cloudy urine, we can perform quick tests to confirm the infection and prescribe antibiotics to clear it up. If UTIs are a recurring issue, we can also discuss strategies to prevent them in the future.

5. Skin infections or rashes

From irritated bug bites to rashes that won’t stop itching, skin problems can be downright miserable. You don’t always need a dermatologist to get relief. Our urgent care team can quickly assess the issue and offer targeted treatments like antibiotics, antifungal creams, or hydrocortisone to soothe discomfort and help your skin heal.

6. Ear and sinus infections

There’s nothing like that throbbing pressure in your head or the stabbing pain of an ear infection to throw off your day. After a thorough checkup, we can recommend what’s best for you, whether you need antibiotics or over-the-counter decongestants.

7. Minor burns

Burns can be tricky to manage at home. After carefully cleaning the area, we may apply medicated ointments and bandage the skin to kickstart healing. We also send you home with tips to prevent scarring and infection as it heals.

If you’re ever unsure whether you need urgent care, call our friendly staff at Peaks Medical and Urgent Care at 970-485-6826 so we can help you plan your next move.