When to see a doctor at Germantown Primary Care Associates

How do you know when to see a doctor?

Many older adults take some type of over-the-counter medication daily.  This may be for inflammation, headaches, or a cold.  If you are one of these people, how do you know you are doing the right thing?  Sometimes over-the-counter medications are fine, but in other situations you should see a doctor.  How do you know when to see a doctor and when to just pop a pill?  Here are some strategies to use when you are trying to decide when to see a doctor:

You have a stuffy nose, are congested and phlegmy

This is probably a cold and you are fine taking an over-the-counter cold medicine while you ride it out.  Look for a cold medication containing both an antihistamine and a decongestant. If your symptoms do not abate in a week to ten days, then is when to see a doctor.

You experience heartburn after every meal and over-the-counter acid reflux medications are not helping.

This is a time when to see a doctor.  These may be the symptoms of a more serious, underlying condition and should be diagnosed by a physician.  Dr. Manbir Takhar and her staff at Germantown Primary Care Associates in Germantown, Maryland will evaluate your condition and may refer you to a gastroenterologist if your symptoms persist.  The first step is to visit a doctor to determine if there is a more serious, underlying condition. 

Yesterday’s workout left you with seriously aching muscles

For this, there is no need to see a doctor or to take any over-the-counter medications.  The best course is to simply allow your muscles to recover before you try that work out again.  If necessary, you can ice the area three times a day for 15 to 20 minutes.  If your aching does not abate within a week, then is when to see a doctor to determine if you have an injury.

Review these tips any time you are not sure when to see a doctor.  Then if you believe you need to see a physician, call Germantown, Maryland’s best primary care clinic, Germantown Primary Care Associates for an appointment.