A Decision Chart (When to Call Your Doctor Chart) is provided for each topic. By using the decision chart and using your common sense, you should be able to select one of the five following Decision Chart categories:

• Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance)
• Call Your Doctor Now (night or day)
• Call Your Doctor Within 24 hours (between 9 am and 4 pm)
• Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours
• Self Care at Home

If you think that you are having a medical emergency, call 911 or the number for the local emergency ambulance service NOW!

And when in doubt, call your doctor now or go to the closest emergency department.

Additional Resources:
 How to use the Adult Health Topics pages
 When to call the doctor
 Reviewers of Clinical Content

Disclaimer: The information contained in these topics is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, it is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new treatment or discontinuing an existing treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Nothing contained in these topics is intended to be for medical diagnosis or treatment.