Feeling winded without a clear cause can be unsettling. Whether it’s a sudden shortness of breath during mild activity or a lingering tightness in the chest, you deserve clear answers and timely care. At Urgent Care Plus & Wellness, we specialize in assessing non-emergent shortness of breath to help patients across Richmond, Katy, Aliana, and surrounding West Houston neighborhoods breathe easier–without the stress of an ER visit.
Founded by Dr. Luke Afuwape, a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician, our clinic is designed for people who want hospital-quality care without hospital hassle. With over 15 years of experience treating respiratory conditions in urgent care and ER settings, Dr. Luke understands how to identify underlying causes of breathlessness and deliver fast, appropriate treatment.
It took me time to share my experience as I lack words adequately strong to convey my satisfaction. The professionalism of every staff on duty was unrivaled. From the front desk staff to the doctor. I stepped into the venue crying due to the excruciating pain in my injured finger, but shortly, I found me smiling and joking due to the effect of the immediate care that I received. I felt like I have known every staff for years. The accident I had badly ripped my finger flesh apart. By the time the doctor was done with the stitches, it was certain that my finger will heal neatly. The doctor is very confident, brilliant and I observed that he likes what he does for a living. I asked for the scope of their practice and was informed that they provide care beyond emergencies, including flu, COVID, physical, check up etc.
I had a call after about 2.5hrs, asking my relief status.
I am 100% satisfied with the care that was provided to me. I will always patronize Urgent Care Plus and Wellness as needed.
I recommend them with my full chest.
My prayers for them include unrivaled success.
When to Seek Urgent (But Not Emergency) Evaluation
Shortness of breath can have many causes, and while some are medical emergencies, others are less severe but still need attention. You should visit our clinic if you’re experiencing:
- Shortness of breath with mild activity or at rest
- Chest tightness or shallow breathing
- Wheezing or difficulty exhaling fully
- Fatigue or dizziness related to breathing
- Recurring breathlessness after illness or infection
- Difficulty catching your breath without signs of severe distress
If you’re experiencing severe chest pain, bluish lips, confusion, or inability to speak in full sentences, please call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
Our Diagnostic Approach
At Urgent Care Plus & Wellness, we take a careful, personalized approach to your symptoms. Dr. Luke will begin by reviewing your health history, checking your vital signs, and performing a physical exam, which may include:
- Listening to your lungs and heart
- Checking oxygen saturation levels
- Assessing for wheezing or reduced air movement
- Identifying potential respiratory or cardiac causes
- Ordering additional tests if needed (e.g., chest X-ray, EKG, lab work)
Personalized Treatment Options
Treatment for non-emergent shortness of breath depends on the underlying cause–but our goal is always the same: to help you breathe easier, feel better, and avoid unnecessary ER visits. At Urgent Care Plus & Wellness, your treatment plan is tailored by Dr. Luke based on your symptoms, history, and exam findings.
Here are some common approaches we may recommend:
Bronchodilators & Inhalers
If your shortness of breath is due to asthma, reactive airway disease, or mild COPD, you may be prescribed a short-acting inhaler (like albuterol) or a nebulized breathing treatment right in our office. These medications help open your airways and ease breathing within minutes.
Oral Steroids or Anti-Inflammatory Medications
For breathing issues related to airway inflammation, such as allergic reactions or asthma flares, we may prescribe a short course of corticosteroids like prednisone. These reduce inflammation and restore normal breathing over several days.
Antihistamines or Decongestants
If seasonal allergies or sinus congestion are contributing to your symptoms, over-the-counter or prescription antihistamines may be recommended. In some cases, nasal sprays or decongestants can relieve sinus pressure that contributes to labored breathing.
Antibiotics (If Infection Is Present)
If your shortness of breath is due to a bacterial respiratory infection like bronchitis or mild pneumonia, Dr. Afuwape may prescribe antibiotics tailored to your condition and medical history.
Oxygen Monitoring & Supportive Care
We routinely check your oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter and provide supplemental oxygen if levels are borderline low. We’ll also guide you on hydration, rest, and breathing strategies to aid in recovery.
Specialist Referrals When Needed
If your symptoms suggest a chronic or more complex issue (like anemia, heart rhythm abnormalities, or long-term lung conditions), we’ll coordinate follow-up with a primary care provider or appropriate specialist to ensure you receive comprehensive care beyond the urgent setting.
Personalized Urgent & Wellness Care Rooted in Experience, Right Here in Richmond, TX
At Urgent Care Plus & Wellness, we believe every patient deserves fast, high-quality care that goes beyond the basics. Founded by Dr. Luke Afuwape, MD, a board-certified Emergency Medicine physician with extensive experience in neurosurgical critical care, trauma medicine, and flight stabilization, our clinic serves as a trusted medical hub for patients across Richmond, Katy, Aliana, Sugar Land, and the broader West Houston region. From pediatric urgent care and injury treatment to specialized services like immigration medical exams, hormone optimization, and mental health support, we provide walk-in access to comprehensive care in a calming, patient-first environment–no appointment required.
About UsGet Checked–So You Can Breathe Easier
Shortness of breath, even when mild, can be a sign of something more. At Urgent Care Plus & Wellness, we take your symptoms seriously and provide prompt, expert evaluation to help you breathe easier and feel more at ease. Contact us today or walk in–we’re open seven days a week with no appointment needed.
