Routine visits to the doctor are advised for all patients. Such visits include annual physicals, routine blood tests, gynecological visits and mammograms for women, eye doctor and dentist visits. Individuals with ongoing or serious medical conditions may need to see doctors more often than individuals who are not diagnosed with any health concerns. Elderly patients and small babies often see the doctor more often than patients of other ages because their medical needs change more rapidly and need more monitoring.

However, many people hesitate when deciding whether to visit the doctor for non-routine health concerns. Sudden illnesses or injuries may warrant an immediate trip to your medical provider, yet in many cases patients are unsure of what signs or symptoms might be included in this list of situations. Many people don’t want to appear weak or alarmist and may attempt to treat certain maladies at home without seeking the professional help of a doctor.

In this article, we discuss 10 reasons why you should see the doctor, STAT.

If you’re questioning whether your or your loved one’s current condition deserves that drive to the doctor’s office or hospital, consider these 10 scenarios for when to see the doctor right away. Any of these conditions could signal more serious health concerns, and seeking the expertise of a medical professional can answer your questions and provide you with the required course of action for a full recovery. In any of the following scenarios, do not wait to see a doctor. Seek medical attention as soon as possible and without hesitation.

1. Rashes: If you have an unusual and unexplained rash that develops with oozing, pain or swelling, or one accompanied by a fever, you should see a doctor as soon as you can. Rashes can sometimes be minor irritations of the skin but also may be associated with more severe conditions, and you will want to allow the doctor to do the required testing to ensure you are treated properly.
   

2. Cold or flu symptoms that go beyond minor discomfort: If you are fighting off a common cold or even the flu, in many cases you may not need to see a doctor. However, when you begin questioning whether your symptoms may be a bit more serious or last longer than expected, you are likely to need the help of a doctor to recover and avoid other health complications that could arise as a result. If you experience extreme nausea or vomiting, are unable to keep fluids down, have pain swallowing, have symptoms lasting beyond the average seven days, your cough lasts beyond two or three weeks, or you have developed an earache, you need to see the doctor right away. Leg problems: If you have pain in the calves that increases when you walk or swelling of the ankles or legs, you should immediately see your doctor.
3. Suspected dehydration: If you or your loved one exhibits any of the common signs of dehydration during illness or at any time for any reason, you need to seek medical attention immediately. Some of the signs of dehydration, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) include: lack of tear production, dry eyes or mouth, a faster-than-normal heartbeat, blood in vomit or stool, dry skin that does not go quickly back into position when pinched and released, lack of urine, a sunken soft spot in the case of an infant, inability to keep fluids down due to vomiting or diarrhea, children who are lethargic or weak, or display signs of irritability or crankiness beyond typical behavior.
4. Heart issues: If you experience an unusual and irregular heartbeat such as a galloping feeling in the chest or rapid pulse (not related to exercise), you may be in need of medical help. Palpitations sometimes can signal more serious issues in the cardiovascular system, and you should seek the expertise of your doctor. If you experience chest pains or your heart palpitations are severe, go immediately to the hospital emergency room or call 911 for help. Headaches: Minor headaches are common and do not typically warrant a trip to the doctor’s office. However, if you experience blurred vision, slurred speech, sudden numbness in the extremities or face, nausea, confusion, memory problems, or excruciating pain that peaks quickly, seek medical help immediately. These symptoms can be signs of a stroke or other dangerous health condition. Burns: Any burns that include severe blistering, open wounds, cover large areas of skin, involve suspected inhalation and internal burns or leave the skin looking charred require immediate medical attention.
   

5. Bleeding: Heavy bleeding that is not easily stopped or controlled warrants a trip to the doctor or emergency room. Stitching or stapling may be required to close up a serious cut and neglecting appropriate care puts the patient at risk for infection and repeat bleeding.
6. Difficulty breathing: If you experience difficulty breathing, a trip to the doctor is necessary. This type of symptom can be the result of an asthma attack, heart attack or severe allergic reaction and is life-threatening. If the doctor is unavailable or the breathing issue is extreme, call 911 for emergency care.
7. Digestive problems: Some people experience digestive problems and already have a care regimen in place. However, if you feel that you have something stuck in your throat and can’t swallow it or experience sudden heartburn, regurgitation or severe abdominal pain, get to the doctor for treatment quickly.

In many cases, a call to the doctor prior to making the trip can help determine whether your symptoms and situation require emergency care, a doctor’s appointment or some other type of treatment. If you question whether you or a loved one needs to see a doctor for any symptom, keep in mind that it is better to be safe than sorry. Seeking medical attention for health concerns is always the best course of action.