At some point, everyone has asked, “Should I visit the doctor?” While several common illnesses can be treated at home with rest and medicine, others are more complicated and require help from a professional. A few general guidelines can help you make an informed decision on when to seek care from your doctor.
Reasons You May Consider When To Seek Care
Common Cold or Flu
Generally, the common cold comes and goes in a few days. Cold symptoms can be treated at home with plenty of rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicine. However, when a cough persists for weeks or symptoms become unusually unpleasant, it’s time to see a doctor.
Similar to the common cold, the flu (or influenza) can usually be treated at home. Symptoms such as a scratchy throat, coughing, sneezing, stuffy nose, and aches & pains are all frequently associated with the flu. If the fever doesn’t go away, there is severe chest pain, or nausea/vomiting, call a doctor immediately. Additionally, those 65 years of age or older, pregnant women, or those with chronic medical conditions should seek a doctor if they experience any flu-like symptoms.
Difficulty Breathing or Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be indicative of normal occurrences, including vigorous exercise or high altitudes. The heart and lungs regulate your breathing, transporting oxygen to your body and removing carbon dioxide. When something interferes with the brain, heart, or lungs, it could lead to shortness of breath.
When to seek care is if someone experiences shortness of breath or difficulty breathing that doesn’t go away. It could be a symptom of a pulmonary embolism, collapsed lung, pneumonia, or lung cancer.
Allergic Reactions
Some allergic reactions can be severe, even life-threatening. From minor hay fever to serious food allergies,reactions can manifest themselves for several reasons. If someone experiences swelling of the lips and tongue, nausea and vomiting, fainting, itchy throat, seek help as soon as possible.
Contrary to popular belief, allergies can develop later in life. In fact, allergies can pop up at any point. Don’t ignore a reaction that comes soon after eating a certain food or coming in contact with a certain animal or plant.
Severe Headaches
Headaches are common, but persistent or severe headaches are not. While a minor headache can be treated with over-the-counter medicine, an unusual or relentless headache should be checked by a professional. Severe headaches can indicate head trauma, a concussion, stroke, or brain aneurysm, all of which can be life-threatening. If your headache is accompanied by confusion, nausea, dizziness or vision issues, contact your doctor as soon as possible for an evaluation.
Severe Chest or Abdominal Pain
As one of the most common reasons for visits to the emergency room, chest pain should not be ignored. From minor heartburn to a heart attack, pain in the chest could be caused by many factors. See a medical professional if your chest pain moves down your left arm, into your back, or if it’s accompanied by nausea or pressure. All chest pain should be treated by a doctor as they can recommend tests and treatments that will safely reduce pain or discomfort.
Back Pain
Back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide. While it can be caused by everyday activities such as exercise, persistent or worsening back pain should be evaluated by a doctor. If you have back painaccompanied by a fever, causes bowel or bladder problems, or follows a fall or other trauma, seek medical help immediately.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health problems are often difficult to spot, but they are more common than one may think. In fact, nearly one in five people will experience some sort of mental illness in their lifetime. Those with mood changes, irregular sleeping or eating patterns, feelings of excessive anxiety, hallucinations, or thoughts of hurting yourself or others should not be afraid to reach out for help and guidance. A doctor can help diagnose and treat issues with your mental health so you can start feeling like yourself again.
Other
If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention as soon as possible:
- High and persistent fever
- Fainting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Coughing blood
- Swelling in ankles or legs
- New, sudden onset of confusion
- Pelvic pain
- You develop unexpected symptoms after a procedure or starting a new medication
More to Consider In When To Seek Care
Some people don’t visit a doctor until they are feeling under the weather or they have an issue arise. It’s best to see the doctor when one is doing well, as a preventative measure. Visiting a doctor regularly allows them to provide health screenings and monitor your health over time. Doctors can discern illnesses early and help manage them before they worsen. Most doctors recommend yearly check-ups as a great way to maintain your heath.
It can be difficult to know when to call the doctor with the onset of concerning symptoms. Often, people try to ignore their symptoms in hopes they will go away. However, it is much better to be safe than sorry. Whether you are experiencing any of the above signs, or you’re due for a yearly checkup, you can preserve and protect your health by scheduling an appointment at the Tanner Clinic today. Our specialists can address all of your needs, from a stuffy nose to urgent care. co
