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Not every cold or stubbed toe needs the care of a physician, but there are certain signs that shouldn’t be ignored. While they don’t always stem from a serious medical condition, they are worrisome enough to be worth a physical exam and a consultation with your family doctor. Here are five symptoms you should always discuss with a medical professional.

When to See a Physician

1. Unexplained Weight Loss

We tend to think of losing weight as healthy, but when it happens too quickly or for no apparent reason, it can actually be a bad sign. Conditions from parasitic infections to cancer have sudden weight loss as a symptom, so it’s essential to identify the cause. This can also be a secondary effect of early satiety—feeling full too quickly—which is itself a symptom you should investigate.

2. Shortness of Breath

physicianWhile there are mundane reasons you may be short of breath, take note of any difficulty breathing that is not caused by exercise. It may be a sign of heart disease, blood clots in the lungs, asthma, pneumonia, or a number of other conditions.

3. Behavior Changes

Psychological symptoms can be just as important as physical ones. If you are feeling confused, your personality has changed suddenly, or you can’t concentrate, it may be due to infection, medications, or even something as simple as a nutritional imbalance. Friends and family may be able to identify signs that you aren’t able to spot.

4. Severe Fever

A temperature over 103 degrees Fahrenheit or a milder fever that lasts for more than a few days is usually the sign of an infection somewhere in your body. You may need antibiotics or another professional treatment to fight it off. Some cancers also cause fever, so it’s important to seek a physician’s care.

5. Sudden or Severe Pain

Pressure or pain in your chest or upper abdomen could mean anything from heartburn to heart attack. If sudden and severe, you should talk to a physician about the cause. A headache that is much worse than you’ve previously experienced or a similarly sharp and sudden pain anywhere else in the body can be signs of injury or illness.

 

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, visit Lexington Family Physicians as soon as possible. Their five skilled and certified providers offer counsel and treatment for a wide range of conditions so that patients across Davidson County, NC, can manage their health. As a family physician, they care for the entire family in one place, making scheduling easier for you and your loved ones. To make an appointment, call (336) 249-3329 or go online to check their hours and other details.

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