Symptoms are your body's way of talking to you. Some are mild and fixable at home; others need fast medical care. This page helps you decide what to watch for, what you can handle yourself, and when to contact a doctor or emergency services.
Not every symptom is an emergency, but some need immediate attention. Call emergency services or go to the ER if you have sudden chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness on one side of the body, severe shortness of breath, sudden severe headache, sudden vision loss, uncontrolled bleeding, or fainting. Use the FAST rule for stroke: Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech trouble, Time to call 911. High fever that won’t come down, severe abdominal pain, or signs of sepsis (very fast heartbeat, confusion, low urine output) also require urgent care.
If a symptom comes on quickly and is severe, don’t wait. If it’s uncomfortable but stable (mild fever, non-severe cough, a sprained ankle), you can often start with home care and a phone call to your primary care provider.
For many day-to-day symptoms you can take practical steps: rest, stay hydrated, use over-the-counter pain relievers or antipyretics as directed, and apply cold or heat for muscle pain. Track symptoms: note when they started, what makes them better or worse, any related symptoms, and all medicines or supplements you’re taking. That list helps your clinician diagnose faster.
Allergies often cause itchy eyes, sneezing, and congestion—antihistamines and nasal rinses help. For mild infections, rest and fluids plus symptom control usually work; watch for worsening. For chronic conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease, stick to your action plan and contact your provider at early warning signs. Our site has detailed posts that may help you learn more—examples include "DVT Treatment Options" for leg swelling or pain, "Understanding Ticagrelor" for heart-related care, and "Dilantin: Understanding Uses" for seizure-related symptoms.
When contacting a clinician, be specific: say how long the symptom has lasted, what it feels like, whether it’s getting worse, and list recent meds or changes. If you’re sending a message or using a telehealth visit, include photos when relevant (skin rashes, swelling).
Finally, know your limits. Home care is fine for most minor problems, but if you’re unsure, it’s okay to ask. A quick phone triage with a nurse or a brief urgent-care visit can prevent complications and give you peace of mind. Use reliable info—like our articles on specific drugs, infections, and conditions—to learn more, but treat online guidance as a starting point, not a final diagnosis.
Bacterial infections are caused by harmful strains of bacteria, which can enter our bodies through various means such as food, water, or even through the air. Symptoms can vary greatly depending on the type of bacteria and the area of the body that is infected, but common signs often include fever, cough, and fatigue. It's important to see a doctor if you suspect a bacterial infection, as they can lead to serious complications if left untreated. There are a variety of treatments available, most commonly antibiotics, which work by either killing the bacteria or preventing them from multiplying. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so maintaining good hygiene is key to avoiding these infections.
More
As a parent, it's essential to be aware of ocular hypertension in children, which is elevated pressure inside the eye. The main causes include genetic predisposition, certain medications, and underlying eye conditions. Symptoms can be subtle, like blurred vision and headaches, making it crucial to schedule regular eye exams for our kids. Treatment options range from eye drops to surgery, depending on the severity. Early detection and intervention can help prevent long-term complications, like glaucoma and vision loss.
More