About.com Health: It's Time to See the Doctor When...

If you can't see this email, click here

Health From Dawn Stacey, your About.com Health Editor I'm the first to admit, going to the doctor is not exactly one of my favorite things to do (and I have a sneaking suspicion that many of you may agree with me). Yet, you know what I find even worse, deciding whether or not I actually need to visit the doctor. I don't want to be "that" patient... you know, the one who calls the doctor for every little symptom, but there are times when making that trip could prove to be extremely beneficial. So, it begs the question -- do you know when it's time to see the doctor? Early Symptoms When is a cough something to be taken seriously? Should you wait until you have several symptoms before making an appointment? It seems that certain conditions may provide you with early clues that something may be wrong. When you notice some of these red flags, it may be a good idea to pay the 'ole doctor a visit. You know what they say, the sooner, the better! Red Flag Digestive Symptoms Thyroid Disease Symptoms and Risk Factors Understanding the Warning Signs of a Possible Pregnancy Problem Food Allergy Symptoms When Should You Call Your Gastroenterologist? See More About:  lung cancer symptoms  cough and lung cancer  paraneoplastic symptoms Reasons to See a Doctor It's not that uncommon for us lay people to try to remedy our own problems. We may try to seek relief by using over-the-counter medicines and products or even try to rely on homemade remedies. For certain conditions, these approaches are just fine; but depending on the situation, it may be time to consult a professional with a medical degree. Acne Treatment Options Celiac Disease Testing Is It Time to Choose Weight Loss Surgery? Top 4 Depression Treatments Do I Need to Visit the Doctor to Get Birth Control Pills? See More About:  preventive treatment  disease management  palliative care Finding Dr. Right Does this scenario sound familiar? You finally decide that it is time to make a doctor's appointment (yay!) -- the only problem, which doctor do you call? There are so many medical specialties, who can help you with your problem? Fibromyalgia - Try a Rheumatologist Tips on Finding an Infertility Counselor How to Tell if a Neurologist Could Help Do You Need a Podiatrist? Finding a Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Doctor See More About:  health insurance  health departments  I Can't Get No Satisfaction When it comes to your health, you should not feel like you are sacrificing. Patient satisfaction is important and can contribute to a stronger doctor/patient relationship. When you feel that you and your doctor are on the same team, you'll be more likely to stick to your treatment plan and feel more comfortable discussing your medical issues. As empowered patients, we should take more responsibility in our medical decisions and become smarter healthcare consumers. Top 10 Reasons to Fire Your Doctor Choosing the Right Doctor for Your Medical Care Switching Doctors During a Pregnancy Signs You Need a New Doctor for SAD When Do You Need a Second Opinion? See More About:  patients rights  healthcare consumerism  patient safety Health Ads Podiatrist Doctor Podiatry Doctor Health Symptoms Home Health Care Medical Health Care Featured Articles How Do I Begin Addiction Treatment? PCOS Treatments When Should I See a Doctor for My Knee Pain? Who Provides Treatment for ADD? Reasons to Have an Eye Exam Treatment of STDs   More from About.com Free Children's Books How would you like to have access to a free online public library of books from around the world for kids 3 to 13? Read more...> Best Water Parks Better pack your bathing suit -- here are our recommendations for the funnest, wettest, splashiest water parks around. Read more...>   Sign up for more free newsletters on your favorite topics You are receiving this newsletter because you subscribed to the About.com Health newsletter. If you wish to change your email address or unsubscribe, please click here. About.com respects your privacy: Our Privacy Policy Contact Information: 249 West 17th Street New York, NY, 10011 © 2012 About.com     Follow us on: Advertisement