Why Winter Hits So Hard in Metro Detroit

Cold air, dry indoor heating, and close contact during family gatherings all create the perfect environment for winter illnesses to spread. Every year, The Heights Urgent Care sees a predictable rise in coughs, fevers, sinus infections, and breathing issues — especially among kids and older adults.

You don’t need fear.
You need clarity, calm guidance, and a simple plan to help your family stay well.

1. Influenza (The Flu)

Flu season peaks in Michigan between December and March. Symptoms can show up quickly and include fever, chills, body aches, cough, and fatigue.

When to seek urgent care:

• Persistent fever
• Trouble breathing
• Symptoms lasting longer than a few days
• Concern for dehydration

Early testing helps determine whether treatment is needed and provides peace of mind.

2. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)

RSV affects all ages but tends to hit infants, toddlers, and older adults hardest. It often starts like a cold but can worsen into wheezing or breathing difficulties.

Walk in if you notice:

• Fast breathing
• Wheezing
• Significantly decreased energy
• Dehydration or fewer wet diapers in kids

Same-day evaluation helps ensure symptoms don’t progress.

3. Viral Bronchitis

This is especially common after a cold or flu. The dry winter air in Michigan makes coughs linger longer than expected.

Helpful home tips:

• Use a humidifier
• Drink warm fluids
• Avoid smoking exposure
• Rest your voice and lungs

If the cough becomes deep, painful, or lasts more than two weeks, urgent care can provide clarity and support.

4. Sinus Infections (Sinusitis)

Dry indoor heating + cold outdoor air = prime sinus irritation.
This often leads to pressure, headaches, congestion, and facial discomfort.

Come see us if:

• Symptoms last over 10 days
• Fever accompanies sinus pain
• You have severe facial pressure

We provide evaluation and guidance to help you feel relief faster.

5. Strep Throat

Winter is peak strep season. It spreads easily among kids and adults in close contact.

Signs to watch for:

• Sudden sore throat
• Pain when swallowing
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes

Rapid strep testing provides answers within minutes.

6. Asthma & COPD Flare-Ups

Cold air can tighten airways, making breathing harder for people with chronic conditions.

Ways to prevent flare-ups:

• Cover your nose and mouth when outdoors
• Avoid cold-weather exertion
• Use home humidifiers
• Keep inhalers accessible

Walk in anytime if you’re experiencing new or worsening symptoms.

7. Winter Stomach Bugs

Viruses like norovirus spread quickly during the winter months, especially in close-contact environments like schools and workplaces.

Stay hydrated and walk in if:

• Symptoms last more than a couple of days
• You can’t keep fluids down
• You’re concerned about dehydration

We can help you understand your symptoms and keep you safe.

What to Avoid During Michigan Winters (Simple, Practical Tips)

💨 1. Extremely Dry Indoor Air

Dryness irritates airways and makes coughs worse.
Try: humidifiers, warm showers, staying hydrated.

🤝 2. Close Contact When Feeling Sick

Winter gatherings are beautiful — and high-risk for illness spread.
Try: staying home when symptomatic and washing hands often.

🚬 3. Secondhand Smoke Exposure

Smoke + dry air = irritated lungs, especially for kids and older adults.

🏃 4. Sudden Outdoor Exertion

Cold air can strain the respiratory system.
Try: warming up indoors first, covering your mouth outdoors.

🧤 5. Going Outside Without Proper Layers

Cold exposure weakens the body’s natural defenses.
Try: wearing scarves, gloves, and windproof layers.

When to Visit The Heights Urgent Care This Winter

Walk in anytime if you or your loved one experiences:

• Persistent fever
• Trouble breathing
• Chest tightness
• Severe sore throat
• Ear pain
• Cough lasting beyond two weeks
• Sinus pain with fever
• Exposure to flu/RSV/COVID with new symptoms

Fast testing and same-day answers can help you recover sooner — and feel calmer while navigating winter illnesses.

Your Neighborhood Partner in Winter Wellness

Winter doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. With clear guidance and a local walk-in clinic you can trust, your family can feel supported all season long.

Walk in anytime. We’re here today — because your health can’t wait.

‍