Minor Illnesses Treated by Primary Care

A primary care doctor serves as the main source of medical care for patients. They are primarily focused on the prevention of health concerns for their patients, but they can help diagnose and treat minor illnesses and injuries as well.

What minor illnesses can a primary care doctor treat?

There are a range of minor illnesses that a primary care doctor can treat. This includes (but is not limited to) the common cold, flu, coronavirus, asthma, and other respiratory illnesses. They can also help treat hypertension (also called high blood pressure), diabetes, bladder infections, and ear infections.

Cold and flu

Respiratory illnesses such as the common cold and flu are commonly treated by primary care doctors. Of course, this includes coronavirus as well. However, keep in mind that many cases of respiratory illness do not require medical intervention and usually improve with rest alone. However, if symptoms worsen or linger for an extended amount of time, then patients can visit their primary care doctor for the cold, flu, and coronavirus symptoms. Primary care doctors can also test for respiratory illnesses as well.

Asthma

Asthma is considered a chronic respiratory disease that can cause the lungs to become inflamed, blocking the airways and making breathing more challenging during an “asthma attack.” All asthma patients should work with their primary care doctor and have a plan for what to do if symptoms develop. After an asthma attack, it can help to notify your primary care doctor and visit to check on your lungs and overall health.

Hypertension (high blood pressure)

Hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure, occurs when the force of the blood is too high. Hypertension, especially multiple recurring episodes of hypertension, can increase the risk of heart disease or stroke. It is important to monitor blood pressure and notify your primary care doctor if blood pressure levels spike (or decline) sharply.

Diabetes

Diabetes affects millions of Americans. There are two different types of diabetes, and primary care doctors may also diagnose “prediabetes” as well. If the symptoms of diabetes are present, then it is important to schedule a visit with a primary care doctor. They can conduct a blood glucose test to start the diagnostic process.

Bladder infection

More than 8 million people visit their primary care doctor for a bladder infection (urinary tract infection) every year. These are usually minor and temporary infections that clear up within a few weeks, although managing the symptoms can be important to ensure the patient is able to function throughout the day. Primary care doctors are also able to diagnose sexually transmitted infections and can treat many of them as well.