Health Services

Health Education

General Health

When to Visit a Healthcare Provider

When to visit a healthcare provider depends on your condition and the severity of your symptoms. Below are some general guidelines to follow when deciding if you need to be seen:

1. If you have a fever greater than 101-102ºF for longer than 2 days.
2. If you have a headache or other pain that is not alleviated by taking over-the-counter medications, especially if you have a fever and/or a stiff neck.
3. If you experience vomiting or diarrhea for more than 2 days, or if you have not urinated in more than 8 hours.
4. If you think you have a sprain or broken bone.
5. If you have an injury that will not stop bleeding or has debris in it.
6. If you have lost consciousness for any reason.
7. If you have cold or flu symptoms that produce yellow/green mucous consistently throughout the day.
8. If you have a persistent cough.
9. If you have difficulty breathing or are short of breath.
10. If you have chest pain, especially if you are nauseated, short of breath or sweating.
11. If you think you may have been exposed to an infectious disease such as tuberculosis, meningitis, or any sexually transmitted infection.
12. If you have a positive result from a home pregnancy test and you need a referral to an OB/GYN.

When to Call 911 or Visit an Emergency Room

1. If an individual seems confused and very sleepy or cannot be awakened.
2. Chest pain with shortness of breath, nausea, and/or sweating.
3. Loss of consciousness.
4. Uncontrollable bleeding.
5. Fractures.