Regardless of our age, we should all see a doctor on a regular basis for preventative care and a way to develop a baseline for our health. Sometimes there are glaring signs you should see a doctor in addition to those regular visits. Here are 6 of those signs.
A Headache With Additional Symptoms
Most headaches can be relieved by over the counter medications. A headache that is more severe than normal is a warning sign something else is wrong and you should probably see your doctor.
When a headache is accompanied by fever, nausea, confusion, trouble walking or talking, or a stiff neck, skip your doctor and go right to the ER. You could be having a stroke, or it could be meningitis.
Stomach Pain And Digestive Issues
We all get an upset stomach from time to time, but certain accompanying symptoms should prompt you to see a doctor.
Diarrhea that lasts longer than a few days, heartburn that doesn’t go away, constipation or stools that are bloody or black, and persistent severe abdominal pain are all signs to see a doctor as soon as possible.
Painful Back
This is a common complaint, but sometimes it can be more serious. Watch out for weakness and tingling down the leg. If you have a fever, redness on your back, and are losing weight, call Davidson Family Medicine for an appointment.
The Common Cold Or Flu
Most of us know the symptoms to watch for when it’s cold or flu season, and we also know how to treat those symptoms. In certain cases we need a doctor’s intervention.
Those symptoms include some of the following:
- A cough that lasts over 2 or 3 weeks
- A high fever
- Excessive sore throat with painful swallowing
- Persistent vomiting
- An earache
- Symptoms that last 10 days or longer and seem to be getting worse
You don’t need to have all these symptoms; even one should be a reason to call your doctor.
A Head Injury
This is one instance where most of us would call a doctor. Yes, it could appear minor, but it could also just as well be a concussion.
If you feel dizzy, have balance problems, begin to vomit, and are sensitive to light, see a doctor. If you begin to have mood changes, can’t sleep, concentrate, or remember things, call Davidson Family Medicine for an evaluation.
Depression, Anxiety, Or Other Mental Health Problems
Never suffer in silence and alone. Any time you are having feelings of sadness that won’t go away, have changes in eating or sleeping habits, are constantly worrying or anxious, and find you can’t cope with day to day problems, call your doctor for help.
Any thoughts of hurting yourself or others – don’t delay to call a doctor.
Best practice is to call Davidson Family Medicine at (704) 892-5454, or request an appointment online, when in doubt. Explain your symptoms, and you will be given guidance.