What should you do when you twist your ankle? Do you need to go to the emergency department now? Is the cough that you have had for three days serious? These are questions that all of us have. And frequently they arise in the evenings and weekend when your doctor is less available. The Symptom Checker is designed especially for these times. The topics help you make appropriate decisions on what level of medical care is needed and how to provide symptom relief for minor conditions at home. You can select any of the 61 Adult Symptoms from the following categories:  Abdomen (GI) Symptoms | Mental and Behavioral Symptoms | | Arm and Leg (Limb) Symptoms | Miscellaneous - Other | | Bites/Stings | Mouth/Teeth/Throat Symptoms | | Breathing or Chest Symptoms | Neck and Back Symptoms | | Ear Symptoms | Nose Symptoms | | Eye Symptoms | Sexually Transmitted Disease | | Fever Symptoms | Skin - Localized Symptoms | | Genital or Urinary Symptoms | Skin - Widespread Symptoms | | Head or Brain Symptoms | |
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. | 
