What should I do if I'm experiencing symptoms?

What to Do When Experiencing Symptoms

If you're experiencing symptoms, you should seek prompt medical attention, keep a detailed symptom journal, and contact your healthcare provider immediately if symptoms are severe or concerning. 1

Initial Assessment of Symptoms

When experiencing symptoms, follow this approach:

1. Evaluate symptom severity and urgency:

   • For severe symptoms (chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe dizziness, sudden weakness): Call emergency services (911) immediately 1
   • For moderate symptoms: Contact your healthcare provider within 24 hours
   • For mild symptoms: Document and monitor for 48 hours 1

2. Document your symptoms:

   • Record when symptoms started
   • Note duration and frequency
   • Track what makes symptoms better or worse
   • Document associated symptoms
   • Rate severity (mild, moderate, severe)
   • Note impact on daily activities 1

Specific Actions Based on Symptom Type

For Chest Pain or Discomfort

• If experiencing chest pain that is unimproved or worsening after 5 minutes, call 911 immediately 1
• If you have been prescribed nitroglycerin, take one dose and call 911 if not improved within 5 minutes 1
• Take aspirin (162-325 mg) while waiting for emergency services 1
• Do not delay seeking help by self-medicating with over-the-counter remedies 1

For Dizziness/Vertigo

• If vertigo episodes last between 20 minutes to 24 hours, especially with hearing changes or ear fullness, seek medical evaluation 1
• Sit or lie down in a safe position to prevent falls 1
• Avoid sudden head movements 1

For Respiratory Symptoms

• For severe breathing difficulty: Call emergency services immediately 1
• For mild-moderate breathing difficulty: Use prescribed inhalers if available and seek medical attention if not improving 1
• Position yourself upright to ease breathing 1

For Gastrointestinal Symptoms

• For acute diarrhea: Maintain hydration with oral rehydration solutions and consider loperamide if no fever or blood in stool 1
• Seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond 48 hours or if you develop fever, severe abdominal pain, or bloody stools 1

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact emergency services (911) immediately if you experience:

• Chest pain or pressure lasting more than 5 minutes 1
• Sudden severe headache 1
• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 1
• Sudden weakness or numbness, especially on one side of the body 1
• Severe dizziness, loss of balance, or fainting 1
• Confusion or difficulty speaking 1
• Severe abdominal pain 1

Follow-up Care

After initial management:

1. Schedule follow-up with your healthcare provider to discuss:

   • Symptom progression
   • Need for diagnostic testing
   • Treatment options 1

2. Prepare for your appointment:

   • Bring your symptom journal
   • List all medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
   • Note any family history of similar symptoms 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Delaying medical care: Many patients wait too long before seeking professional help, which can worsen outcomes for serious conditions 1
• Self-diagnosis: Online research can be helpful but should not replace professional medical evaluation 1
• Ignoring "minor" symptoms: Sometimes seemingly minor symptoms can indicate serious conditions 1
• Stopping medications without consultation: Don't discontinue prescribed medications without speaking to your healthcare provider 2

Remember that prompt evaluation of concerning symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment. Many serious conditions have better outcomes when identified and treated early 1.