Blog Articles

Understanding the Difference: X-Ray vs CT Scan for Injury Diagnosis

When you suffer an injury, choosing the right imaging test is key to your recovery. Learn the differences between X-rays and CT scans, including radiation risks and when each scan is needed for an accurate diagnosis.

Sep 1st, 2026

3 Specialized IV Therapy Treatments You Should Know About

Wondering if IV therapy is right for you? From rapid hydration to immunity support, discovering the right blend can help you feel your best. Keep reading to explore three specialized IV drips offered right here at SmartClinic Urgent Care.

Aug 1st, 2026

When to Choose Urgent Care Over the Emergency Room

Choosing urgent care over the emergency room might help you get care faster for many common medical concerns. This guide can help you decide when to go to urgent care and when you should head straight to the ER.

Jul 1st, 2026

The Hidden Benefits of X-rays in Urgent Care Settings

Not all urgent care is created equal. By choosing a provider with in-office X-ray capabilities, you get access to quick, accurate diagnostic information. 

Jun 1st, 2026

How to Prevent Another UTI

If you keep getting urinary tract infections (UTIs), these tips can help. Still dealing with UTIs after making lifestyle changes? Come in to see our team for targeted care.

May 1st, 2026

Does Rest Help You Recover Faster From the Flu?

Yes, rest absolutely helps you bounce back from the flu more quickly. Get as much sleep as you can to help your immune system work its best.

Apr 1st, 2026

5 Common Causes of Lower Abdominal Pain

If you have a stomachache that’s in the lower part of your abdomen and it’s sticking around, we can help you figure out what’s going on and help you feel better. Here, learn about five common causes of lower abdominal pain.

Mar 1st, 2026

When Does a Sore Throat Require Treatment?

Sore throats might resolve themselves on their own, but there are some instances in which you’ll need medical intervention. Learn when to see a doctor for your sore throat.

Feb 1st, 2026

Did Your Winter Fun Result in an Injury? We Offer On-Site X-Rays

Southern Californians tend to be less familiar with snow and ice, which can lead to injury if you hit the slopes, rink, or another slick surface. If you’ve been hurt, we can help you figure out what happened promptly with on-site X-rays.

Jan 26th, 2026

Don’t Let an Upset Stomach Ruin Your Holiday: When to Seek Help

A passing stomachache is pretty normal with all of the rich food and drink that are common around this time of year. There are some situations that warrant seeing a doctor for abdominal pain, though. Learn about them here.

Nov 1st, 2025

Is It a Cold or Bronchitis? How to Tell the Difference

With colder weather comes more cases of the common cold. You have symptoms, but is it this prevalent but passing health condition or could it be something more serious? Find out here.

Oct 20th, 2025

Start Prepping Your Body Now for Cold and Flu Season 

As the weather cools, your risk of getting a cold or the flu heats up. Fortunately, you can take steps to protect yourself, like the five things we outline here that can help you prepare your body and your household for flu season.

Sep 2nd, 2025

Why Do I Have So Much Abdominal Pain?

If you’ve been dealing with abdominal pain that keeps coming back or won’t let up, it’s time to figure out what’s going on. It could stem from a treatable condition or be triggered by something in your diet. Don’t put off seeking medical care.

Aug 2nd, 2025

Lifestyle Changes That Maximize Your Weight Loss Treatments

If you’re on a weight loss journey, especially when you’re using semaglutide, making some strategic changes in your daily life can really help propel you forward. Here are three of them that our weight loss experts recommend.

Jun 4th, 2025

Top Tips for Semaglutide Weight Loss Success

If you’re planning to take semaglutide for weight loss, doing a few other things in tandem can help you get the best results — and maintain them. Here are four tips our team recommends for weight loss success.

May 6th, 2025

When Should I Be Concerned About a Sore Throat?

A sore throat might be nothing to worry about, but if it comes with other symptoms, it’s worth seeing a doctor. Here are some other concerns to watch for that indicate you need medical attention for your sore throat.

Apr 9th, 2025

Understanding Complicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

If you’re diagnosed with a complicated urinary tract infection (UTI), it means the usual treatment — a short round of antibiotics — isn’t enough to heal it. Learn what to do if you come up against this issue.

Mar 13th, 2025

8 Signs Your Wound Could Be an Abscess and Needs Treatment Now

Just because your body has the ability to heal a wound doesn’t mean you should ignore it and just hope it goes away. Keep an eye out for these warning signs that your injury has turned into an abscess and needs medical attention.

Feb 6th, 2025

My Child Is Afraid of Going to the Doctor: What Can I Do to Help?

If your child has the very common fear of visiting the doctor, we have a few practical tips — and a caring, experienced staff — to help. Here’s what you can do when your kid is afraid of going to the doctor.

Jan 7th, 2025

How to Know If You Have an STD

There’s no single symptom that spans across all sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and some of these infections don’t present any symptoms at all. The only way to know definitively if you have one is to get tested.

Dec 1st, 2024

Is a Stomachache a Serious Matter?

Stomachaches are so common that many people dismiss them. There are, however, some warning signs that your abdominal pain is a symptom of something more serious. Learn what to watch for here.

Nov 8th, 2024

The Many Ways IV Therapy Can Support Your Health

If you want to boost your energy levels, hydration, immune system, or overall wellness, intravenous (IV) therapy can give your body what it needs. Here, we look at a few specific ways we use this type of treatment to support your health.

Oct 16th, 2024

Flu Season Is Nearly Here: 5 Reasons to Get Your Annual Flu Shot ASAP

As the fall season brings some coolness to California, let it be your reminder to get vaccinated against the flu. If you need an extra push to schedule your flu shot, we’ve got five good motivators here.

Sep 11th, 2024

When Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) Keep Coming Back

A one-off urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common — albeit uncomfortable — condition. But if your UTIs keep coming back, it’s time to talk to a doctor and figure out what’s going on.

Aug 14th, 2024

When Does a Sprained Ankle Require Expert Evaluation?

If you’ve sprained your ankle, you can usually wait it out for a few days at home to see if it improves on its own. There is a point, though, when you should seek medical attention. 

Jul 22nd, 2024

How to Handle Your Child's Earache at Home and When to See Our Urgent Care Team

In many cases, earaches clear up on their own. Applying proper at-home care can ease your child’s discomfort while you wait to see if it will heal. If problems persist after a few days, though, it’s time to see a doctor. 

Jun 19th, 2024

What a Urine Test Can and Can’t Reveal About Your Health

Urinalysis — or a urine test — can tell you a lot about certain aspects of your health, but it isn’t a comprehensive screening for your overall wellness. Here, we look at when you might benefit from this specific type of testing.

May 15th, 2024

Why an X-ray Might Be a Good Idea If You've Been Injured

An X-ray can help identify a broken bone, but its uses don’t stop there. After you get hurt, this diagnostic tool can tell our team a lot about what’s going on in your body, allowing us to personalize your treatment plan.

Apr 1st, 2024

Which Conditions Are Eligible for Walk-In Medical Care?

When a medical issue arises, you can address the vast majority of your needs by simply walking into our office. Let’s look at what we offer as walk-in care and when you should seek emergency medical attention instead.

Mar 20th, 2024

Can I Beat My Illness Without an Antibiotic?

Some illnesses require an antibiotic, while others don’t improve even if you take this medication. To help you find out if you should seek out an antibiotic, we built a quick guide.

Feb 14th, 2024

Should I See a Doctor About the Flu or Will It Resolve on Its Own?

Flu season is in full swing. If you come down with influenza, you have two choices: Wait it out at home, or head to the doctor. Here, we explore which path is right for you.

Jan 16th, 2024

What Type of Tests Are Performed at a Physical?

If you have a physical scheduled, you might be wondering what to expect. Here, we take a look at the tests that we might recommend at your annual physical exam.

Dec 5th, 2023

How Can I Prepare My Child for a Doctor’s Visit?

There’s almost nothing worse than seeing your child scared. If they’re worried about an upcoming trip to the doctor’s office, these preparation tips can help them — and you — have a positive experience. 

Nov 15th, 2023

Does a Sore Throat Mean I Have Strep?

A sore throat doesn’t necessarily mean you have strep throat — but it could. In this quick guide, learn more about symptoms of strep to watch for as well as when you should get a strep test.

Oct 1st, 2023

The Link Between Gallstones and Abdominal Pain

A stomachache is a fairly common — and often passing — issue. But if it comes on suddenly in the upper-right portion of your abdomen, it could be a gallstone. You should never ignore abdominal pain, and here’s what you need to know about gallstones.

Sep 5th, 2023

How Can IV Therapy Help My Body?

IV therapy is a little like taking a vitamin and drinking a lot of water — except the intravenous treatment works much more effectively and quickly. Here, we look at a few physical ailments this therapy can help.

Aug 1st, 2023

I Think My Child Has Allergies: What Should I Do?

If you’re concerned that your child might be living with allergies, getting them to a doctor can ease their symptoms and ease your mind. Here’s a guide to help you through your next steps when you suspect your child has allergies.

Jul 12th, 2023

Can an Abscess Heal on Its Own?

A swollen pocket of pus, called an abscess, can happen almost anywhere on your body. While some abscesses heal on their own, some require medical attention. Regardless, seeking out treatment can help you get rid of this painful problem more quickly.

Jun 1st, 2023

Are Ketamine IV Infusions Safe?

While ketamine IV infusions may be a relatively new treatment for depression, ketamine is certainly not new to the medical scene. It’s been safely used for decades. Here’s what you need to know.

May 10th, 2023

The Link Between GERD and a Sore Throat

A sore throat is a surefire signal that your body is dealing with an issue, but what could it be? Before you assume it’s a cold or COVID-19, you should know that it could be gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Apr 7th, 2023

I Have a High Fever: Wait It Out or Go to Urgent Care?

When you’re feeling under the weather, you can wait out some symptoms at home, but a fever isn’t necessarily one of them. If your fever exceeds a certain temperature, it’s time to seek prompt medical care.

Mar 2nd, 2023

I Think I Have an STD: What Should I Do?

If you’re sexually active and have suspicious symptoms, you might be thinking about seeing a medical professional. Here’s the best path to getting diagnosed and finding the right treatment if you think you have a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

Feb 7th, 2023

6 Benefits of Having an Annual Physical Exam

If you want to start the new year strong, make an appointment for a physical exam. Here are six things this important annual visit can do for you and why you should resolve to make that appointment.

Jan 1st, 2023

Making Sense of Symptoms: Is It COVID-19, the Flu, or a Bad Cold?

It’s flu season. Pair that with the common cold and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and symptoms might have you scratching your head. Feeling under the weather? Learn how to find out if it’s the flu, a cold, or COVID here.

Dec 12th, 2022

Ankle Sprain vs. Fracture: How to Tell the Difference

Sprained ankles usually heal on their own, but if it persists, your ankle pain could mean something more serious is going on. Learn how to check for an ankle fracture here.

Nov 1st, 2022

Answers to the Questions We Get Most Often About Flu Season

As we head into flu season, it’s important to be prepared. To help with that, we’ve gathered up some frequently asked questions about influenza — and their answers.

Oct 6th, 2022

Do You Have Jet Lag? IV Therapy Might Be Your Answer

Did you bring home an unwanted souvenir from your vacation? If jet lag has you exhausted during the day and struggling to sleep at night, it might be time for intravenous (IV) therapy.

Sep 12th, 2022

Understanding Your Risk for Getting an STD

If you’re sexually active, it’s important that you understand two things: your specific risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and how to be responsible about that risk level.

Aug 4th, 2022

How a Ketamine IV Infusion Can Treat Your Depression

If you live with treatment-resistant depression, a ketamine IV infusion could bring you relief. Here, we explore what the research says about this exciting new treatment option.

Jul 5th, 2022

My Child Has the Flu: What Should I Do?

Because the flu is very contagious and can make your child very sick, it’s important that parents feel informed about how to handle this common illness. Here’s your quick-start guide.

Jun 1st, 2022

How B Vitamins Help Your Body

B vitamins play a huge role in your body, helping with your immune response, cardiovascular health, energy levels, and more. Learn what these powerful vitamins do and how to be sure you’re getting enough of them here.

May 1st, 2022

Why Antibiotics Aren't the Go-To Solution for Bronchitis

Whether you have acute or chronic bronchitis, antibiotics probably aren’t going to be the ticket to better health. Learn more about the different types and causes of bronchitis along with the most effective treatments available today.

Apr 3rd, 2022

What Causes an Abscess?

If you’ve developed a fluid-filled, painful area on your body, you could be living with an abscess. Learn what might have caused it and how to get rid of it in this guide.

Mar 2nd, 2022

7 STDs and How to Protect Yourself

Knowing about the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) — and their symptoms — can help you keep yourself healthy. Here are seven STDs to watch for so you can protect your health.

Feb 1st, 2022

I've Had a Cough for Three Months: Should I Be Concerned?

An ongoing cough might seem like something you can ignore. But if it lasts for months or comes with certain symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. Learn more about when it’s a good idea to seek medical care.

Jan 5th, 2022

The Importance of Pediatric Care

You want to do everything you can to keep your child or children safe and happy — and healthy. Regular pediatric care plays a pivotal role as your little ones grow. Learn why here.

Dec 5th, 2021

Can My Sore Throat Heal on Its Own?

Some sore throats last only a few days, but others can stick around until you treat the underlying condition that’s causing them. Learn when you can wait it out and when you should make a doctor’s appointment.

Nov 4th, 2021

When Is Urgent Care Necessary?

If you don’t want to wait days or weeks to see your primary care physician and don’t want to bear the cost of an emergency room visit, urgent care can help. Learn what our urgent care team can do for you.

Oct 1st, 2021

Do I Really Need a Physical?

Going to the doctor when you feel fine might seem like an unnecessary hassle. But there are some pretty compelling reasons to get a regular physical. Here are a few things that might make you want to book an appointment.

Sep 7th, 2021

5 Common Digestive Issues in Kids

Tummy troubles often come and go for kids. But when they persist, they can be cause for concern. Here are five common digestive issues to watch for in children and steps you can take to help them find relief for their symptoms.

Aug 3rd, 2021

4 Signs of a Urinary Tract Infection

Urinary tract infections — or UTIs — are extremely common. But how do you know if you have one? Here, we list four of the most frequent symptoms of this type of infection so you know when you should come in for treatment.

Jul 18th, 2021

When to See a Doctor About a Sore Throat

Is your sore throat something that will go away on its own, or should you seek medical care now? To help you find out when you need to see a doctor for your sore throat, we’ve created this helpful guide.

Jun 14th, 2021

When Is Abdominal Pain an Emergency?

It can sometimes be tricky to know when pain in your abdomen is something that will resolve on its own or something that requires medical attention right away. Here’s your guide to figuring out when you should see a doctor.

May 11th, 2021

Why Do I Keep Getting UTIs?

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common, but that doesn’t mean you want to be dealing with them on a regular basis. Here are five things that can cause recurring UTIs.

Apr 6th, 2021

Should I Be Tested for COVID-19?

COVID-19 testing gives you a way to be sure you can safely see the people you love and do the things you enjoy. But it’s not always necessary. Find out if you should get tested.

Mar 4th, 2021

5 Signs of Bronchitis

Since bronchitis interferes with your ability to breathe comfortably, you want to get it diagnosed and treated as quickly as possible. Here are five signs of bronchitis to watch for.

Feb 17th, 2021

Am I at Risk for HPV?

HPV is fairly common and it’s usually harmless. Still, you want to know if you’re at risk for this sexually transmitted disease and the symptoms to watch for. Learn more here.

Jan 26th, 2021

Are Physicals Necessary?

If you feel healthy, you may wonder if it’s necessary to get a physical examination. But a regular physical provides you a wealth of information that helps you and your medical team make good choices for you and your family, both now and later.

Dec 23rd, 2020

How to Prevent an Abscess

An abscess is a swollen bump that shows up beneath your skin’s surface. Abscesses occur when a skin injury or hair follicle becomes infected and a pocket of pus forms. Keep reading to learn how to prevent abscesses from forming in the first place.

Nov 15th, 2020

See the Doctor From Your Own Home

COVID-19 has changed how we access health care. Thanks to telemedicine, patients now have an easier, safer way to see their doctors and get the care they need. Keep reading to learn more.

Oct 22nd, 2020

Give Your Immune System a Boost With a Myers' Cocktail

Having a strong immune system is critical for maintaining good health and well-being. And with COVID-19 sweeping the globe, a strong immune system is a must. Stay healthy and give your immune system the boost it needs with the Myers’ cocktail.

Sep 16th, 2020

6 Common Causes of Abdominal Pain

Abdominal pain can be a mild inconvenience or it can have a significant impact on your well-being. Here are six common causes of abdominal pain to look out for.

Aug 19th, 2020

Does Your Sore Throat Require Medical Care?

You have a sore throat, but you’re not sure why. Should you just eat a popsicle and drink some tea or should you head to an urgent care clinic? This question plagues many people. Read on to find out when a sore throat needs medical attention.

Jul 27th, 2020

Top Warning Signs of a Respiratory Infection

If you’re experiencing headaches, coughing, and the chills, you probably have a respiratory infection. They usually resolve on their own, but can be life-threatening. Watch for these top warning signs of a respiratory infection.

Jun 17th, 2020

5 Myths About STIs

If your partner recently tested negative for an STI and you have no symptoms, you probably don’t have one either. Sadly, myths like these are partly why there are 376 million new STI cases each year. Keep reading to learn more STI myths.

May 22nd, 2020

What Happens at an Annual Physical?

An annual physical is a key part of preventive care. But what can you expect during your physical? To find out, keep reading.

Apr 20th, 2020

Signs You Have Bronchitis

Is your constant coughing from a common cold or bronchitis? Knowing the signs of bronchitis can not only keep you healthy, it can also prevent more serious conditions like pneumonia or COPD. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of bronchitis.

Mar 16th, 2020

Are You Dealing With a UTI? These Tips Will Help!

Dealing with a UTI is never fun. The symptoms can be painful, annoying, and inconvenient. If you’re dealing with a UTI, read on and discover tips that will help ease your symptoms.

Feb 6th, 2020

Who Needs an STD Test and How Often?

Are you wondering if you need an STD test? All sexually active adults should be tested, but determining the right testing schedule can be confusing. Continue reading to learn how often you really need STD testing.

Dec 31st, 2019

How IV Infusion Therapy Works to Fight Off Illness

Intravenous (IV) drip therapy can boost your health and wellness. Did you know you can stave off a cold with IV infusion therapy? Learn more about how this treatment works and why it's more effective than any over-the-counter drug.

Dec 2nd, 2019

It’s Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot

You meant to get your flu shot, but life is busy and you just haven’t had time. Have you missed the window on this important ritual for your health? No way! Learn why it’s not too late to get a flu shot.

Nov 14th, 2019