An acute illness is a short-term illness that can range in severity. Typically, symptoms of an acute illness will go away within a few days to a week. Some of the most common acute illnesses treated at Medallus Urgent Care include the following: Pneumonia Pneumonia is an infection that occurs in the lungs causing a build-up of pus. Four major signs of pneumonia include persistent cough, fever, chest pain, and phlegm. Pneumonia can be dangerous for patients with weakened immune systems and can lead to respiratory failure. Bronchitis Bronchitis is an acute illness that develops in the breathing tubes and causes major inflammation. Acute bronchitis otherwise referred to as a chest cold, will cause symptoms such as cough, chest discomfort, fatigue, shortness of breath, and clear or white mucus. Strep Throat Similar to pneumonia and bronchitis, strep throat is caused by an infection. This bacterial infection is primarily found in the throat and can be treated with prescribed antibiotics. Symptoms of strep throat include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, red spots, and swollen tonsils. Appendicitis Appendicitis is an inflammation in the appendix caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Symptoms of appendicitis such as severe abdominal pain, nausea, high fever, and complete loss of appetite. This type of infection is treated with intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and an appendectomy.