Many wonder whether or not they should bother their family doctor when it comes to common problems like headaches, fever, and the like. Sadly, most don’t want to be a bother or seem like they’re calling for every little thing, but it’s important to realize that anyone who practices family medicine is there for them and their families as long as they’re concerned about their health. There should be no reason to avoid at least calling them.
Here are some common foods and how one should approach them; whether they should call their family medicine professional or wait.
Fever
Fever in children is the common reaction of their little body to any type of infection in the body. Elevated temperature makes the body inhospitable to germs. The best thing you can do is give them over-the-counter medicine to reduce fever and keep them comfortable.
In adults, fever is another story. This is because the family medicine specialist may ask about aches and pains and your medical history. People with compromised immune systems should take a fever as a sign of inflammation and a possible more serious condition, and should definitely call their GP at the very least.
Special attention to fever should be paid to those who have the following:
• Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory diseases
• Cancer
• HIV AIDS
Outside of these illnesses, anyone who has a fever along with other symptoms should call a doctor.
skin conditions
If one has a large outbreak and is quite bothered by a rash, then one should definitely call their family medicine expert. If it’s just a bit of acne, or a random rash that doesn’t really bother you, then one can try an over-the-counter allergy medication or rash cream. In any case, if it is unbearable, see a medical professional immediately. There is no reason to be uncomfortable.
If you notice patches on your skin and they itch, flake, change color, grow, or bleed, it’s crucial to be seen. Melanoma can sometimes look like age spots, so don’t dismiss it, especially if it’s unusual.
Anxiety
If the reason for the anxiety trigger is known—for example, tomorrow is the big wedding day or an exam is coming up—there’s no reason to call a family medicine specialist. However, if the anxiety is constant and is leading a person to drink, eat, lose sleep, or any other serious symptoms that could cause one to harm themselves or others, then medical attention is a must.
Keep in mind that a doctor is not only there for physical ailments but for mental ones as well. They trust that you can express your concerns and feel comfortable doing so. Everyone experiences trials and tribulations at times. On a more serious note, the symptoms of anxiety can resemble those of hyperthyroidism, so keep that in mind.
Bad breath
Many will say, “Why the hell would I care about bad breath? I’d just brush my teeth or go to the dentist.” While those are great options, chronic bad breath can be a sign of many underlying issues. If it is not solved with oral care, it can be a symptom of:
• Lung problems
• Kidney problems
• Intestinal problems
• Cancer
Sweet or fruity breath? This wouldn’t normally trigger red flags, but it could be a sign of diabetes.
excessive burping
Just like bad breath, not many people care when they burp. While it’s normal to burp after a big meal or drink, it’s unnatural to burp excessively. The following conditions, in addition to a lot of belching, can be a bad sign, and one should contact their family medicine professional if they are concerned:
• burning chest
• vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Swelling
• Unexplained weight loss