Some Reasons to Call a Doctor*
Problem |
Reasons to Call |
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Vomiting or inability to keep fluids down Painful swallowing Coughing that lasts more than 2 or 3 weeks Earache Symptoms that last more than 7 days |
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Black or bloody stools More than 6 to 8 watery stools in children Symptoms of dehydration (such as very dry mouth and armpits, confusion, and decreased urination), particularly in children and older people |
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A feeling that food is stuck in the throat Development of or change in heartburn, particularly during exercise Frequent heartburn, belching, or regurgitation Persistent or severe abdominal pain Persistent nausea |
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General problems |
Symptoms that prevent participation in usual activities, particularly new or worsened shortness of breath with exertion Unexplained weight loss Dizziness or an about-to-faint feeling Persistent fatigue Sweating, especially heavy or cold sweats |
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Severe headache that peaks in intensity within seconds Memory loss or confusion Blurred or double vision Slurred speech Loss of balance or dizziness Seizures Numbness or weakness in the arms, legs, or face Nausea |
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Heart problems |
Rapid or galloping heartbeats (palpitations) |
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Leg problems |
Pain in the calves that worsens when walking Swelling in the ankles or legs |
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No periods by age 16 Sudden stopping of periods A period that lasts much longer than usual or is excessively heavy A sudden feeling of illness while using tampons Severe or disabling cramps |
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Rash |
Fever of 100.4° F (38° C) or above A rash that is painful, involves swelling, or oozes |
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Swelling or redness in or around an eye Problems with vision |
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Moderate or severe abdominal pain Symptoms of dehydration, particularly in children and older people Green, black, or bloody vomit |
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* The list of problems and the reasons to call a doctor are only a small sample. |
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