When exactly can a home doctor help?

As a home doctor service, there are many reasons why patients book a doctor ranging from physical injuries to illnesses. Though, a common occurrence we have noticed is patients wondering whether or not they do require a home doctor or if they should simply wait until the following day.

To help, we have put together a list of common reasons you can book a home doctor.

Sprains

It is very common for patients to injure themselves during a work or school day and then need to call for an after-hours doctor at night. A usual reason for this will be because of a sprain. If you think you may be suffering from a sprain, you can look for the below signs and if you are experiencing them, book a doctor. These include:

· Tenderness when you touch the area;

· Bruising;

· Swelling;

· Pain;

· Being unable to move the affected area.

Although some patients tend to think their injury is only minor and therefore medical attention is not needed, you should always consult with a doctor to exclude the possibility of serious injury – particularly those which may need advanced treatment.

If the injury is minor, a home doctor will be able to advise the correct treatment including rest, ice or heat, anti-inflammatory medication, or pain-relieving medication. Following this, if the injury is worse, the doctor may refer you to an emergency department where further assessment will be needed.

Another common physical injury our home doctors have come across is pain, such as hip, back and neck. If you are in intense pain, consult with a doctor immediately. Other signs you should see a doctor include:

· Being unable to walk more than a few steps without experiencing pain;

· Being unable to move the affected area without experiencing pain;

· Feeling numbness near the affected area.

Skin infections

Another very common reason our home doctors are called is for skin infections. These can include:

· School sores: This infection is quite common with children and is highly contagious, therefore requiring immediate medical attention. If you notice symptoms such as red and itchy skin or blisters (particularly around the mouth or nose) – contact a doctor as soon as possible. From here, a doctor will be able to advise the correct treatment from ointments or creams to prescription antibiotics.

· Hives: This skin rash is usually caused by allergic reaction, with triggers including medicines, food, or irritants. Hives can be identified with symptoms such as red and itchy welts appearing in varied sizes and shapes. Once examined, a doctor will advise the patient with the correct treatment such as over the counter or prescribed antihistamines.

· Cellulitis: This skin bacterial infection is typically identified as it usually occurs on the lower legs and will look red or swollen and the affected area will be tender to touch. Cellulitis is caused when bacteria enter the skin and spread to tissue underneath. You should seek medical attention immediately if you believe you may have cellulitis, particularly as it is common in older people. A doctor can then prescribe the correct treatment, typically antibiotics.