Introduction

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 weekends when your doctor is less available.

Adult HouseCalls Online 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 77 Adult Topics.

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

Disclaimer: This information is not intended 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.

Author and Senior Reviewer: David A. Thompson, M.D.

Last Reviewed: 9/21/2007

Last Revised: 9/30/2006

Content Set: Adult HouseCalls Online

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Introduction