Your primary care physician can provide the essential health solutions you need. This type of doctor can be an internist. Seeing this healthcare provider can improve your general health. Here are the five signs you should see your primary care doctor as soon as possible.
1. Sudden changes in the body
If a person notices a drop in weight without being on a diet, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with a doctor. Unexplained weight loss could indicate a serious health issue. A sudden change in bowel movement and urination is also a sign that a person should see a doctor. Changes in mood and sudden confusion could also indicate that there is an underlying cause to worry about.
2. High fever
Sometimes, one’s body temperature may rise a little above or below the normal range. There are factors, such as weather conditions, that can cause this. But if one’s fever reaches at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit, this could be a sign of a serious infection. This will need immediate medical attention. A primary care doctor and the patient can discuss the symptoms that occur with the high fever. This can create a proper treatment plan that must start right away.
3. Skin changes
Aging triggers a series of skin changes that may be puzzling at times. Studies show that the outer layer of the skin is more sensitive. It can be more vulnerable to damage. A tiny puncture or cut may get seriously infected. Skin discoloration and puss are more than enough reasons to see a primary care doctor for treatment. The consultation may determine if the skin changes will need a more detailed treatment or hospitalization.
4. Pain
This is an immediate reason for seeing a primary care physician. Head pain is quite common. It may start and then stop after some over-the-counter pain medication or rest. It can also be a sign of a serious disease. See a doctor if the headache does not improve with medication or becomes debilitating.
Chest pain is common among middle-aged and senior individuals. It may be a sign of an impending heart attack. Treating a heart attack right away can prevent cardiac damage. Quick thinking can also prevent death. Seeing a primary care doctor for regular checks can determine if the chest pain has a connection to a heart issue.
Common back pain may go away with rest. It may also go away by taking over-the-counter pain relievers. Applying cold and heat packs to the affected area may also help. Seeing a primary care physician is important if the back pain is much like the following:
- Occurs with fever
- Constant or persistent
- Occurs with redness or swelling
- Happens with weakness or numbness in one or even both legs
- Spreads below the knees
- Happens with weight loss
5. Colds that last for at least a week
The body becomes more susceptible to viral infections, such as colds. A normal cold can last for a week. If a runny nose, stuffy nose, or coughing does not improve for a week, it is ideal to see a primary care doctor. This healthcare professional can determine if the individual needs treatments, such as antibiotics.
Preparing for the primary care doctor visit
It may take a few days to see a primary care physician. Before going to the clinic on the set date and time, it is good to prepare for it. Doing so can save time and effort. Here are some ways to prepare for the visit:
- Bring the necessary information. Compile the necessary list of current medications and supplements. Place the medications and prescriptions in a bag and bring them on the day of the visit. Patients should also bring any insurance cards they have. Prepare to share the names of the current doctors and their phone numbers as well.
- Plan on bringing a close friend or family member to the primary care doctor’s clinic. The companion can remind the patient about the important things relevant to the checkup. The companion must be someone who respects the space that the patient and the doctor must have during the appointment as well.
- Create a list of health issues or topics. This can speed up the appointment and prevent the patient from forgetting the items that need addressing.
A primary care physician can help you achieve better health
Scheduling an appointment with any doctor can be time-consuming, especially if the doctor has many patients. Even so, having a primary care physician can help you gain better health. Addressing your signs and symptoms right away can help you get the treatment you need. Working with your primary care doctor is a great way to achieve lasting good health.
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