When to See a Doctor:
No Appointment Necessary

Aired on Lifetime Television
Sunday, February 10 and March 30, 2008
Show 506

Pain—it's a four-letter word. It's your body's way of telling you something's wrong.  But how do you know when it's serious?  Over-the-counter pain relievers can help minor aches and pains, but if you have recurring pain, it can be a sign of something serious. When pain interferes with your daily life, that's when you need to have it checked out by a medical professional. Some people believe pain is something you just have to live with, but telling your doctor about it can lead to treatment, therapy, and eliminating the underlying problem causing the pain. When you visit your doctor, be prepared to explain where the pain is, how bad it is, and how often it occurs. You should also tell your doctor what kind of pain you're experiencing – sharp, shooting pains or dull, aching pains, for example—but you can also have nerve pain, which is more a tingling or burning sensation. Communication is key for your doctor to successfully pinpoint the cause of your pain – and treat it.