Contact your doctor immediately if you experience a high fever (over 101°F or 38.3°C), severe chills, or difficulty breathing. These can indicate a serious infection requiring urgent medical attention.
Seek medical advice if your symptoms worsen despite taking over-the-counter medications. This includes increasing pain, spreading redness around an infection site, or the development of new symptoms.
For infections involving wounds that show signs of deep tissue involvement (excessive swelling, pus, foul odor), consult a doctor promptly. Delayed treatment can lead to complications.
If you have a weakened immune system due to a medical condition or medication, contact your physician at the first sign of a bacterial infection. Your risk of serious complications is significantly higher.
Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to severe complications from bacterial infections. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention if they show symptoms such as lethargy, poor feeding, or persistent vomiting.
Bacterial infections in pregnant women require immediate medical attention as they can affect both the mother and the developing fetus. Consult your doctor or obstetrician immediately.
If you’re unsure if your symptoms require professional attention, err on the side of caution. A quick consultation can prevent potential health risks and provide peace of mind.
