Common Symptoms
Fatigue
Insomnia
Weight loss or gain
Headache
Eye pain
Dizziness or Fainting
Chest Pain
Abdominal pain
Frequent Diagnosis
Acute Bronchitis
Sinus Infection
Ear Infection
Poison Oak
Seasonal Allergies
Chronic Back Pain
Sprained Ankle
Conjunctivitis
Urinary Tract Infections
Patients are now more responsible for their health. This begins with your health habits-- careful food selection, regular exercise, preventing accidents, getting enough sleep, and reducing stress. Experts estimate that one half of all illness is preventable or self-inflicted. It is a choice to stay healthy; your choice.
In this new patient centered health care model, you are more responsible for your medical care. Be a strong self-advocate. Yes, your Doctor's office computer will send you a reminder, but don't depend on it. You should not delegate your health to anyone else, especially a system or business. You are too important.
Knowledge is essential if you are going to make careful decisions. You have many sources of information available to you: family, friends, TV, books, magazines, the Internet. Study your health and your health care.
The formal practice of medicine is an art and science, based on education and experience. Unfortunately our knowledge of medical science and the human body is incomplete. All of us have to make decisions on the basis of the best information that is available. Understanding the logic of medical diagnosis and treatment will help you with this process.
One concept is to know the difference between a symptom and a diagnosis. The pain in your throat is a symptom. Strep throat is a diagnosis. In general it is best to describe your symptoms to your Physician, avoiding the use of diagnostic terms.
Knowledge will also help you prepare for your Doctor's appointment. Always bring a list of your regular medications and a list of any chronic conditions you have. Also, inform your Doctor about any health problems in you family?
The list on the left includes frequent symptoms and diagnosis that we treat at HTMC. It is not a complete list, but we hope this information is helpful. Your comments are welcome.