Name:______________________

In terms of their management, there are three categories of symptoms of illness: non-urgent symptoms, urgent symptoms and emergent symptoms.

Non-urgent Symptoms

Non-urgent symptoms can be managed by the individual. These conditions are relatively mild and short-lasting. A visit to the doctor or clinic is not required. A visit to the emergency room is inappropriate use of health care resources.

Example: coughing that accompanies a viral infection

• Recommended care: Self-care.
  • Increase fluids to 10-12 glasses a day.
  • Use throat lozenges or cough drops.
  • Sleep with extra pillow to decrease coughing.
  • Use cough suppressant with dextromehtorphan to calm a dry cough.
  • Use antihistamine if cough is from post nasal drip.

Urgent Symptoms

Urgent symptoms need medical attention. These conditions are more intense or last longer. Contact with a medical provider is indicated, usually within two days. Example: coughing that is accompanied by a fever of 101 F; a history of asthma, emphysema, diabetes or HIV; cough produces thick, yellow, green, rusty or blood streaked mucous; lasts longer than four weeks or occurs after travel to location where polio is endemic.

• Recommended care: doctor's office or clinic. Avoid the ER if it is not truly an emergency.

Emergent Symptoms

Emergent symptoms require immediate medical attention. These conditions may be life-threatening or may result in long-term or permanent damage. They may appear suddenly and worsen significantly in a short period of time. Emergency symptoms include:

• Sudden pain, especially in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness, fainting, headache, change in vision
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe or constant vomiting or diarrhea
• Severe or constant bleeding
• Loss of consciousness
• Sudden weakness or loss of strength in arms or legs

Example: coughing that is accompanied by shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, high-pitched musical sound when breathing or occurs after exposure to a chemical irritant or smoke.