When to See Your Family Doctor
Although you should contact your doctor whenever you feel anything out of the ordinary, sometimes signs and symptoms may not be so obvious. Here are three subtle signs and symptoms that you simply can’t ignore.

If you’re an adult over the age of 30 and do not have any major health issues, primary care for women and men may be the last thing on your mind. After all, you don’t have to see a doctor until it is time for one of your routine physical exams or health screening tests. But what do you do about those not-so-obvious signs and symptoms, such as shortness of breath and unexplained weight loss? Here are three subtle signs and symptoms that you simply can’t ignore.

Unintended weight loss: It seems that everyone these days is trying to lose weight. But if you’re losing weight without trying to, it may be a cause for alarm. According to the Mayo Clinic, if you have lost up to 10 percent of your weight during a six-month period, you should consult your doctor or family practice in Gaithersburg. Unintended weight loss could indicate several health issues, including overactive thyroid, diabetes, depression, liver disease or even cancer.

Constant or high fever: A fever usually means that your body is fighting an infection. However, it might be a serous medical condition if you have had a fever for more than three days. A constant or extremely high fever can indicate that you have a urinary tract infection or tuberculosis. It may also signal serious conditions, such as cancer. This is why it is important to consult your family doctor in Gaithersburg if you’ve had a fever for more than three days.

Shortness of breath: While an occasional stuffy nose can make it difficult to breathe, if you’re unable to catch your breath, panting for air, or wheezing, consult your doctor or hospital practice immediately. Shortness of breath could indicate several underlying health issues, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, chronic bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, or a blood clot in the lung. Another explanation for shortness of breath could be a panic attack.