Medical costs are hitting astronomical figures. It’s to the point many Americans will actively avoid receiving the medical care they need for fear of bills.

This is no way to live. Despite this simple fact, it can be hard to find viable options. Instead of reaching for the emergency room phone number next time your pain reaches a certain threshold, consider looking into your local urgent care center. Not only will you still receive high quality medical care, you’ll also enjoy the benefits of a short wait time and a low cost. Too many Americans today are trying to choose between saving money and living a healthier life.

Pick a third option. Skip the emergency room phone number and look instead to urgent care for any of these symptoms or conditions.

Headaches, Migraines, And Dizziness

When your head hurts and just won’t stop, the best doctors at a Bellevue medical center can assist you. Dizziness remains the second most common complaint heard in doctor’s offices today, also estimated to occur in 70% of the population at any given point in time. The cause of a severe headache can be several factors, so much so it’s a difficult condition to self-diagnose. Dehydration, chronic migraines, and the aftermath of panic attacks are just a few. If the condition is severe and reoccurring, tell your urgent care doctors so they can send you on the fast track to diagnosis and recovery.

Nausea, Vomiting, And Allergic Reactions

Just like headaches, nausea can be a difficult symptom to pinpoint. It could be caused by an adverse reaction to food, but it could also be caused by chronic, unchecked stress. If you’re starting to throw up or the pain has been persistent for days, it’s recommended you visit an urgent care center and ask for a diagnosis. There are over 20,000 physicians who practice urgent care medicine today. According to the Urgent Care Association Of America, three million patients visit them each and every week.

Cuts, Burns, And Skin Conditions

Some wounds you’re not able to treat on your own. Doctors for urgent care are more than aware of the unpredictable turns life can take, such as cutting yourself while chopping vegetables or burning yourself reaching for a mug of coffee. Deep cuts and burns should be treated as soon as possible, since infection needs only a little time to set in and complicate things. Skin conditions, such as eczema or severe psoriasis, can also see treatment in an urgent care setting. No matter what, trust you have professionals eager to help.

Fractures, Sprains, And Broken Bones

It’s understandable to be scared enough to reach for the emergency room phone number when you suspect a broken bone. It’s not something you can easily treat by yourself, much less well, and the pain can blur your better sense. An Everett urgent care center will not just provide you treatment, but will potentially redirect you to the emergency room if they’re unable to help. Four out of five urgent care centers provide fracture care today, with short wait times and experienced staff. Even if you’re referred to an emergency room, the cost won’t be nearly as high.

STD Testing, Vaccinations, And Physicals

Preventative care should also be high on your to-do list. It’s not just about reacting to symptoms, but providing yourself the means of nipping small problems in the bud. STD testing is highly recommended even if you’re not sexually active. Vaccinations should be updated regularly, with the flu vaccine required once every year to stay effective. Lastly, you can always ask your urgent care nurse about a physical to ensure you’re good to go.

Before you reach for the emergency room phone number, see instead how Kirkland urgent care can help. It could mean the difference between a $150 medical bill and a $1,500 medical bill.