Everything You Need to Know Before You Call the Doctor

When should you get a second opinion? Are your symptoms serious? Should you call the doctor, go to the emergency room or just sleep it off? Everything You Need to Know Before You Call the Doctor answers these questions and more so you can make the right decisions to solve any medical problem quickly and efficiently.

The innovative organization allows readers to look up their medical conditions by symptom. If you have abdominal pains, the stomach section lists specific indicators, from pain in certain spots to indigestion to incessant stomach rumblings. It then suggests a course of action: seek help immediately, see Ulcers on page 632 or drink some milk and should the pain persist, call your doctor. The book also offers a dictionary of diseases and disorders. Each section presents a detailed explanation of what the condition is, its causes, common treatments and medications prescribed over-the-counter so readers know what to expect if they seek a physician's help.

The preventive medicine chapter and the helpful advice throughout the book provide modern methods to help avoid illness and keep your body fit and healthy. This practical home guide covers every significant medical topic including pregnancy, birth, child rearing, aging, nursing, minor illnesses, serious diseases, both over the counter and prescribed medicine and much, much more.

An exhaustive medical reference assembled by an international team of doctors and medical journalists, offering a balanced and accessible approach to understanding your body and your health

Identify your ailment in Signs and Symptoms

Learn more about injuries and illnesses in Complaints

Research commonly prescribed tests and procedures in Examination and Treatment

Use the information in Self-Help to practice prevention and lead a more healthful life

Topics Include

Respiratory System Circulatory System Digestive System Bones, Muscles and Joints Mental Health Sexuality and sexual functioning Women's and men's needs Childhood diseases Ailments affecting older adults And Much More

Interpret your symptoms, discover their causes and decide what to do next

Become an informed patient and ask the right questions