A cough that lasts more than 2 or 3 weeks. Persistent or severe vomiting. A fever that doesn't go down or go away. Symptoms that last more than 10 days or get worse instead of better.
But see your health care provider if you have: Symptoms that get worse or do not get better. Fever greater than 101.3 degrees Fahrenheit (38.5 degrees Celsius) that lasts more than three days. Fever returning after a fever-free period.
Share any symptoms you have
Examples of symptoms include pain, fever, a lump or bump, unexplained weight loss or gain, or having a hard time sleeping. Be clear and concise when describing your symptoms. Your description helps the doctor identify the problem.
Increasingly restless, agitated, anxious, confused or drowsy. Flushed, sweating, chills, high or low temperature, clammy, dizzy or chest pain. Less mobile than usual, unsteady or spending more time in bed. Change in skin colour – rash, mottling of skin or blue tinge to lips.
Adults with a sustained fever of more than 102 degrees, as well as any combination of the below flu-like symptoms, should seek medical attention: Difficulty breathing. Severe chest or stomach pain. Vertigo and lightheadedness.
From patient contact, to staff teamwork, to talking with relatives, good communication skills are essential for a doctor. You have to be able to clearly and concisely explain what is happening to your patients, ensuring that they understand what is going on, all while remaining professional and personable.
Listen to, and respond to, their concerns and preferences. Give patients the information they want or need in a way they can understand. Respect patients' right to reach decisions with you about their treatment and care. Support patients in caring for themselves to improve and maintain their health.
If you're in an HMO, a primary care doctor will typically be your first point of contact for all your health issues. When you need care from a specialist, your primary care physician generally refers you to specialists within your plan's provider network.
In general for both men and women, if you are in basically good health and under the age of 50, it is recommended you see your PCP every three years for a checkup. After age 50, see your doctor once a year.
There are actually many good reasons to see a doctor regularly, even when you feel fine. The most important reason is that some serious illnesses require treatment before you feel or recognize them, such as heart disease, thyroid disorders, kidney issues, and cancers such as of the prostate, colon, and breast.
Physicians and surgeons diagnose and treat injuries or illnesses and address health maintenance. Physicians examine patients; take medical histories; prescribe medications; and order, perform, and interpret diagnostic tests. They often counsel patients on diet, hygiene, and preventive healthcare.
Everyday fatigue that is not illness-related starts with a baseline of health. You may feel sleepy, you may in fact be sleep-deprived, or your body and mind may be worn out from long hours, exertion, or unrelenting stress — but you don't feel sick. Your muscles and joints don't ache like when you have the flu.
More Frequent Illnesses. An obvious sign of deteriorating health is more frequent illness and cases of disability. Your aging loved one is more prone to colds, flu, infections, and more, so it is important to give them proper care as soon as possible. If you notice they are getting sick more often, consult a doctor.
acute (=becoming serious very quickly)A lot of illnesses can be either acute or chronic.
Serious health condition means an illness, injury, impairment, or physical or mental condition which requires: Overnight hospitalization (including prenatal care), including the period of incapacity or subsequent treatment in connection with the overnight care.