Healthwise Self-Care Checklist: Do I Need to Go to the Doctor?

Overview

For some minor health problems, you may not be sure whether to seek care, try self-care at home, or wait to see if the problem goes away. You can ask yourself a few questions and use a 4-step process to help you decide what action to take.

How can you make a plan for taking action?

These steps can help you make a plan for taking action.

1. Observe the problem.
   • When did it start? What are the symptoms?
   • If you have pain, is it a dull ache or stabbing pain? Is it constant, or does it go away and come back? Is it related to certain movements or activities?
   • Measure your vital signs: temperature, pulse, breaths (respiration rate), and blood pressure.
   • Think back:
     • Have you had this problem before?
     • What did you do for it?
     • Have there been any recent changes in your life (such as stress, medicines, food, exercise)?
     • Does anyone else at home or work have these symptoms?
   • How concerned are you about the problem?
2. Learn more about it.
   • Check the Healthwise Knowledgebase.
   • What do other articles or books say about the problem?
   • Do you have a helpline you can call? Do you have a primary care doctor you can contact?
   • What advice or opinions have other people (lay or professional) offered to you?
3. Make an action plan.
   • What do you think is wrong?
   • How soon do you think you need to act?
   • What have you decided to do about it? Do you need to act at all?
4. Evaluate your progress.
   • Are you getting better or worse?
   • Do you still have any concerns?