Sick Visits

Children become sick more often than adults because their immune systems are still developing. For example, while adults typically experience colds 2-3 times yearly, young children frequently end up with four or more colds each year. At Merritt Pediatrics in San Antonio, Texas, board-certified pediatrician Christina Merritt, MD, accommodates same-day and next-day sick visits when time is of the essence. Schedule a sick visit by phone or request one online today.

What are sick visits?

Sick visits at Merritt Pediatrics consist of same-day and next-day appointments that allow Dr. Merritt to evaluate your child for illnesses or injuries requiring prompt medical attention. She’s also available after hours via the Merritt Pediatrics secure messaging app. Having the ability to talk with Dr. Merritt promptly helps lower your child’s risk of complications.

Which conditions do sick visits treat?

Sick visits at Merritt Pediatrics allow Dr. Merritt to diagnose and treat the following conditions and more:

• Strep throat/sore throat
• Pink eye
• Ear infections
• High fever
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Colds, the flu, and COVID-19
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Rashes
• Injuries
• Animal bites
• Dizziness
• Severe headaches
• Wounds
• Fractures
• Strains and sprains
• Other sports injuries
• Asthma attacks
• Chronic or severe coughing
• Nasal congestion
• Severe allergies

Dr. Merritt pinpoints the root cause of your child’s symptoms to determine how to best treat them and avoid complications.

What happens during sick visits?

During your child’s sick visit, Dr. Merritt assesses their pulse, temperature, and other vital signs. She completes a physical exam, discusses their symptoms and medical history, and could recommend diagnostic tests. 

Dr. Merritt evaluates your child’s ears, eyes, throat, heartbeat, and breathing. She might complete bloodwork, a urinalysis, nasal or throat swabs, breathing tests, allergy testing, or other diagnostic tests. Your child might also need X-rays or another imaging procedure.

Depending on your child’s diagnosis and the severity of their condition, Dr. Merritt might recommend wound care, fracture care, rest and fluids, home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or prescription medicines. If your child has a severe or complex medical condition, she provides referrals to an emergency room or another specialist.

When should I schedule sick visits for my child?

Schedule same-day or next-day sick visits at Merritt Pediatrics anytime your child is ill, has bothersome symptoms, or you become concerned about their well-being. If you’re unsure if they should be seen in person by Dr. Merritt, call the Merritt Pediatrics office and speak with a friendly specialist. You can also call or message Dr. Merritt after hours with questions. 

Schedule a sick visit at Merritt Pediatrics by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.