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 hassle or appear to be asking for everything, but it is important to realize that anyone who practices family medicine is there for them and their family when they are concerned about their health. There should be no reason to shy away from at least calling them.
Below are some common ailments and how they should be addressed; whether they should call their GP or wait.
Fever
Fever in children is the common reaction of their little body to any kind of infection in the body. The elevated temperature makes the body inhospitable to germs. The best thing you can do is give them over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and keep them comfortable.
In adults, fever is another story. This is because the family medicine specialist may ask you about your aches and pains, and about your medical history. Those with immune system deficiencies should take fever as a sign of inflammation and a possible more serious condition, and should definitely at least call their GP.
Those who have the following should pay special attention to fever:
• 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 you have a large outbreak and are quite bothered by a rash, you should definitely call your family medicine expert. If it’s just a little acne or a random rash that isn’t really bothersome, then one can try an over-the-counter allergy medicine or rash cream. In any case, if it is unbearable, consult a medical professional immediately. There is no reason to feel uncomfortable.
If you notice spots on your skin and they are itching, flaking, discoloring, growing, or bleeding, it is crucial to be seen. Melanoma can sometimes look like age spots, so don’t rule it out, especially if it’s unusual.
Anxiety
If the reason for the anxiety trigger is known, such as whether tomorrow is the big wedding day or an exam is coming up, there is no reason to call a family medicine specialist. However, if anxiety is constant and is prompting a person to drink, eat, lose sleep, or any other serious symptoms that may cause one to hurt oneself or others, medical attention is imperative.
Keep in mind that a doctor is not only for physical ailments, but also for mental ones. They are a confident that one can voice their concerns and feel comfortable doing so. Everyone goes through trials and tribulations at times. On a more serious note, anxiety symptoms can mimic those of hyperthyroidism, so keep that in mind.
Bad breath
Many will say, “Why the hell would I worry about bad breath? I’ll just brush my teeth or go to the dentist.” While those are great options, chronic bad breath can be a sign of many underlying problems. If not remedied with oral health care, it could be a sign of:
• Lung problems
• Kidney problems
• Intestinal problems
• Cancer
Sweet or fruity breath? Normally this would not set off the red flags, but it could be a sign of diabetes.
Excessive belching
Like bad breath, not many people worry when they burp. While it is normal to burp after a good meal or drink, it is not natural to burp excessively. The following conditions, in addition to a lot of burping, can be a bad sign, and one should contact their family medicine professional if concerned:
• Burning chest
• vomiting
• Diarrhea
• swelling
• Unexplained weight loss
