Larry Welling, MD

The Common Cold

   The common cold is the name of a group of symptoms caused by a variety of viruses. Over 200 different types of viruses can cause a cold! Rhinoviruses, which mean "nose viruses", are the most common. Viruses, not bacteria, cause colds so antibiotics don't work. Going outside without a jacket, wet hair or damp socks do NOT cause colds.

No vaccines have been developed against colds. Your immune system must fight it on its own. Typically irritation in the nose or a scratchy feeling in the throat is the first sign, followed within hours by sneezing and a watery nasal discharge. The three most frequent symptoms of a cold are nasal stuffiness, sneezing and runny nose. Adults and other children with colds generally have minimal or no fever. Infants and toddlers often run a fever in the 100 to 102 degree range. Within one to three days, the nasal secretions usually become thicker and perhaps a yellow or green. This is a normal part of the common cold and not a reason for antibiotics. During this period, children's eardrums are usually congested and there may be fluid behind the ears.

Headache, cough, post nasal drip, burning eyes, muscle aches or a decreased appetite may also occur. Forcing a child to eat when he or she has a decreased appetite due to a cold is both unnecessary and unhelpful; however, do encourage them to drink plenty of clear liquids.

Cold syptoms are often the body's attempt to get rid of the virus and to minimize damage:

  • Sneezing ejects the virus from the nose.
  • Coughing from the lungs and throat.
  • Vomiting from the stomach.
  • Diarrhea from the intestines.
  • Fever makes it difficult for the virus to reproduce.

Prevention is the key to preventing both the cold and the flu! Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and wash your hands often!

F.A.Q.

Urgent Care

Q. What insurance does Urgent Care accept?
A. We do accept most insurance including Medicaid & Medicare. We do not accept out of state Medicaid nor do we bill the Indian Health Service for care. We are contracted with most major insurers. As with any provider, you are responsible for deductibles, coinsurance and uncovered services.

Q. What will my copay be?
A. Your copayment should be listed on your insurance card. If it is not, you can call the number on the card to obtain that information.

Q. Can I be billed for my co-pay?
A. No.

Q. Does Reliance make payment agreements?
A. Yes, however you will receive a discounted rate if services are paid in full at the time of service.

Q. Can I write a postdated check?
A. No.

Q. Do you have to make an appointment for Urgent Care?
A. No appointment is needed for Urgent Care. It is a walk-in service.

Q. Do we perform pregnancy tests?
A. Yes, pregnancy tests may be administered when you come in as an Urgent Care Patient.

Q. Does Reliance see women who are pregnant?
A. Reliance will see pregnant women for non-pregnancy related minor illnesses or for minor injuries.

Q. Is Reliance Urgent Care associated with any other urgent care or San Juan Regional Medical Center?
A. No. Reliance Medical Group is not associated with SJRMC or their Urgent Care facility.

Physicals

Q. Does Reliance perform blood work?
A. Yes, if it is required by your employer or prescribed by your physician. Please call and talk to us about your specific needs.

Q. Does Reliance administer sports physicals?
A. Please call us at 505-566-1915 for an appointment; however, please note that we can often provide this service the same day.

Q. Does Reliance perform Well Physicals?
A. No. Please refer to your doctor for your regular physicals.

Q. How far ahead must I cancel an appointment?
A. You may cancel a physical or workers compensation appointment the same day.

Q. Does Reliance test for HIV or STDs?
A. Yes, both HIV & STD testing are available through our Urgent Care.

Q. Does Reliance perform shots for kids?
A. Reliance has Hepatitis B, and Tetanus vaccines for adults. We do not administer shots needed for children to attend school. However, flu shots are available in season for all patients over 6 months of age.

Q. Does Reliance perform the D-Tap (Vaccine) for school kids?
A. No

Q. What does my blood pressure have to be to pass a DOT Physical?
A. 140/90 or below

Drug Screens

Q. Do you have to make an appointment for a drug screen?
A. No. Appointments are not necessary for drug screens; however, we do request that employers call ahead before sending in large groups

Q. Can I bring my child in for a drug screen?
A. Yes.

Q. How long does it take to get results back?
A. If you are requesting and paying for the drug screen, you will receive results from a rapid panel test in five minutes. If you are screened for work, it will depend on what your company’s individual protocol is. For this, results generally take two to three days to get back, and will be sent directly to your employer.

Q. Why don’t I get the results for drug screens?
A. Results are sent or given to the party paying for the screen.

Q. What is the cost for drug screens?
A. Prices vary depending on the test. Please call 505-566-1915 for current price information.

Q. Can I get a Drug screen for myself?
A. Yes. But we must take payment at the time of service. (Cash or credit card only)

Q. Does Reliance do hair tests for drugs?
A. Yes, please call 505-566-1915 for the latest pricing information.