It can be scary to recognize there is something wrong with your health. But the longer you put off professional help, the worse the condition can get.
Putting off a visit to the doctor puts your life at risk. For instance, only one in five people with heart attack warning signs seek help, even though there are plenty of medical professionals available.
Are you wondering when to see a doctor for a sore throat, cough, or something else? Keep reading to learn the top five signs you should schedule a visit to your physician’s office.
1. You’re Having Trouble Breathing
Respiratory problems should not be ignored. If you’re experiencing ongoing shortness of breath, coughing, or nasal congestion, schedule a doctor’s appointment.
A good rule of thumb to follow is that if you’re experiencing respiratory issues that don’t go away after 10 days, see a doctor.
If you’re ever having trouble breathing, you should visit your primary care physician right away. Shortness of breath can be a symptom of other underlying health conditions.
Without seeing a doctor, something as simple as a cold can turn into pneumonia, bronchitis, or adult-onset asthma.
2. You’re Experiencing Frequent Digestive Problems
Changes in digestive patterns signal something isn’t right.
Signs of digestive problems include:
- Changes in bowel movement or urination patterns
- Severe abdominal or pelvic pain
- Sudden weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Difficulty swallowing
- Frequent heartburn
Sudden changes in digestive patterns can be treated, or they may be due to chronic diseases like Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Crohn’s disease. A medical expert can guide you through treatment and help manage chronic disorders.
3. You’re Noticing Cognitive Issues
Consult with a medical expert if you observe disruptions to your cognitive abilities. While it’s normal to have one or two forgetful moments, frequent memory or learning problems require medical attention.
See a doctor if you notice your memory regularly slipping. This includes misplacing items, forgetting important dates, and getting lost going to nearby places.
Behavioral and personality changes can result from cognitive disabilities, which is why you should visit a doctor if you notice any of these symptoms.
4. Your Emotional Well Being Changed
Your local physician doesn’t only focus on physical health. Doctors can diagnose patients with mental health diseases. If this happens, your doctor may guide you through treatment or refer you to a mental health counselor.
Irritability, mood changes, loss of interest in activities, and changes in your sleep patterns are signs that your emotional wellbeing may be impaired.
Visit a doctor to undergo a screening for depression or anxiety disorders that may be hindering your emotional wellbeing.
5. You Have Ongoing Symptoms
After recovering from an illness, symptoms should go away within seven days of treatment. However, if symptoms linger, schedule a follow-up with your doctor.
Frequent fevers, coughing, headaches, pain, and unexplained weight loss or weight gain are all reasons to pick up the phone and schedule a doctor’s appointment.
Your physician will reassess your condition, determine an effective treatment, and screen you for underlying health problems that could be causing the symptoms to stick around.
Time to See a Doctor? Schedule a Visit Now
You know your body best. Pay attention to unexplained changes in your everyday functions. Understand the difference between getting over a cold and when to see a doctor.
If something seems off, don’t hesitate to consult with the professionals.
Is it time for you to see a doctor? If any of the above signs or symptoms sound familiar, schedule an appointment with a qualified physician.