NOT FEELING WELL 73
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR Your symptoms may be due to an anxiety disorder or depression.
• Try physical exercise or some relaxation techniques( p. 169); they may help to alleviate the symptoms.
Might you be pregnant?
Possibly pregnant
Not pregnant
Are you feeling more tired than usual?
More tired
No change
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES Body changes that occur soon after conception can make you feel unwell. Symptoms include fatigue, feeling faint, and nausea / vomiting.
• Eat frequent small meals throughout the day rather than a few larger meals. If you suffer from morning sickness, eat a snack before getting up.
• Lie down if you are feeling faint or tired.
• If you are not sure whether you are pregnant, use a home pregnancy test or consult your doctor.
Do you regularly drink more than the recommended limit of alcohol( see box opposite)?
Within the limit
More than the limit
ACTION
TRY SELF-HELP MEASURES You may have a mild digestive upset as a result of infection or having eaten something that disagrees with you. Your symptoms are not likely to be dangerous, but severe diarrhea can cause dehydration, particularly in the elderly or very young.
• Avoid rich or spicy foods and drink plenty of clear fluids.
CONSULT YOUR DOCTOR if you do not feel better within 2 days or sooner for a child.
Do you have any of the following?
Loss of appetite
Nausea and / or vomiting
Diarrhea
None of the above
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if your fatigue is persistent or severe and has no obvious cause.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR for advice about reducing the amount of alcohol you drink. Regularly drinking too much alcohol can make you not feel well.
ACTION
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE YOUR DOCTOR if you cannot identify a possible cause for not feeling well from this chart.