There are times when you know it’s an emergency and you’re off to the ER. You don’t fool around with chest pains, for instance (no taking chances that it’s just indigestion). Ditto for broken bones and deep cuts.
But what about those other times? You know them: the sense that something’s wrong, but you’re not sure how bad it really is. it always seems to happen over a weekend or during the evening, when the doctor’s office is closed. Waiting doesn’t feel right, but neither does rushing to the emergency room.
Call your doctor. Most physicians have an answering service for this purpose. Offer the following:
- Your full name; that you’re a current patient, in active treatment.
- The best way to reach you (provide both cell number and land line).
- The reason for your call, emphasizing that, while it doesn’t seem like an emergency, it’s a matter of serious concern that can’t wait for office hours. Don’t be too explicit, as most folks who take messages have little clinical experience. Use phrases, such as:
- My new medication is making me ill
- I am experiencing several new symptoms
- My pain has increased over the last (number of) hours and I need to discuss a different approach
- Find out who’s on call. Ask the service to contact the doctor on your behalf rather than waiting for him/her to call in for messages. Note the time of your call and ask to be called back after the service relays your concerns. This will give you a time frame and help relieve anxiety.
Don’t ever hesitate to seek help. Even over a weekend. Even when you’re not sure whether or not it’s an emergency.