Here are six symptoms that you should call your doctor about:
1. Unexplained weight loss of 10 pounds or more.
2. Black, tarry stools — could be a bleeding ulcer or intestinal cancer.
3. A severe headache with stiff neck and high fever — possible bacterial meningitis, an infection that needs to be treated quickly with antibiotics to prevent brain damage.
4. A sudden, excruciating headache — although rare, this type of headache could be a brain aneurysm and needs immediate medical attention.
5. For women — vaginal bleeding after menopause; prolonged menstrual bleeding, or a lump or thickening in the breast.
For men — a lump in the testicles.
6. Call 911 immediately for:
Signs of heart attack. Chest discomfort that lasts for more than a few minutes or goes away and comes back; discomfort in one or both arms, the back, neck, jaw, or stomach; shortness of breath; cold sweats, lightheadedness, and nausea.
Signs of stroke. Sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg; confusion, trouble speaking or understanding; trouble seeing or walking; loss of balance; severe headache with no known cause.
