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When you’re feeling under the weather, it’s sometimes tempting to dismiss your symptoms and put off calling your physician. But this can be dangerous, and it’s important to understand what calls for immediate treatment so you don’t find yourself dealing with a serious problem later. Here, Lexington Family Physicians in Davidson County, NC, lists five signs you need to call your doctor.

5 Signs You Should Call Your Physician

1. Chest Pain

Chest pain is the top warning sign of a heart attack. The pain might feel like pressure or an ache, or it may be a sharp sensation in your chest. Pain that radiates down the arm is also an indicator of a heart attack, which requires immediate medical attention to treat.

2. Persistent Fever

Fevers are common with viral infections, but one that hangs around for more than three days or reaches 103°F or higher warrants a trip to the doctor. A persistent fever could be a symptom of an underlying infection, meningitis, tuberculosis, or even cancer.

3. Shortness of Breath

physicianFeeling short of breath is an unpleasant experience and can range from wheezing to breathing faster than normal. If this is a recurring problem, you should have it checked out by a physician as soon as possible. A range of underlying conditions might be responsible, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a pulmonary embolism, pneumonia, bronchitis, or asthma.

4. Sudden & Intense Headache

Headaches are a common ailment, but if you experience a severe and sudden pain in your head, it could signal a larger issue. Some culprits might be as simple as a migraine or as serious as an aneurysm. You should not ignore the pain and hope it goes away; call your doctor right away.

5. Unexplained Weight Loss

If you’re losing weight quickly without dieting, a serious issue may be to blame. Some causes include diabetes, endocrine problems, or even cancer. Pay attention to the scale, and if the numbers drop without a known cause, make an appointment with your physician.

The best way to protect your health is to see your family doctor for regular checkups and a physical exam. The experienced medical staff at Lexington Family Physicians can address your symptoms and provide personalized care. Call them at (336) 249-3329 for an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their staff and services.

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