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WHEN SHOULD I GO TO THE HOSPITAL?

A SIMPLE GUIDE TO ASSESSING SYMPTOM SEVERITY

This guide can help you understand how urgent your symptoms may be.
If you’re unsure, call your primary care provider or seek prompt medical attention.

Same‑Day Care Needed (Urgent Care / Same‑Day Appointment)

Contact or visit a clinic today if you have:

  • Fever above 101.5°F (38.6°C) lasting more than 2–3 days

  • Worsening shortness of breath (but still able to speak)

  • New or worsening abdominal pain

  • Painful urination or flank (kidney area) pain

  • Vomiting or diarrhea with signs of dehydration

  • Severe sore throat with high fever

  • Asthma symptoms not improving after using an inhaler

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Safe to Monitor at Home

You may rest and observe your symptoms at home if they are mild and improving:

  • Mild cold or flu‑like symptoms

  • Mild headache controlled with medication

  • Muscle aches or mild joint pain

  • Seasonal allergies

  • Mild skin rash without fever

If symptoms last more than 3–5 days or worsen, contact your doctor.

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Ask Yourself (Important)

  • Are my symptoms getting worse quickly?

  • Is the pain or discomfort severe?

  • Will these symptoms likely keep me from sleeping tonight?

If you answer “yes” to any of these, seek care sooner.

Extra Caution Needed

  • Seek medical advice promptly even for mild symptoms if you:

  • Are 65 or older

  • Are pregnant

  • Have heart disease, diabetes, cancer, or lung disease

  • Have a weakened immune system

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When in Doubt, Call Your Doctor

Early evaluation can help prevent emergencies.​

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Call 911 or Go to the Emergency Room Immediately

Do not wait if you have any of the following symptoms:

  • Chest pain, pressure, or pain spreading to the arm, jaw, or back

  • Sudden shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

  • Weakness in one arm or leg, facial drooping, or slurred speech

  • Fainting, severe confusion, or decreased consciousness

  • Severe abdominal pain or uncontrolled bleeding

  • High fever with stiff neck or altered mental status

  • Blue lips or skin, or seizures

These symptoms may be life‑threatening. Seek emergency care immediately.

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