FIRST: Try acetaminophen or ibuprofen to control your fever. If your fever doesn’t go down, call your primary care physician or visit an urgent care facility.

GO TO THE ER: If you have a fever higher than 105 degrees.

FIRST: Most physicians suggest you stay home and treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications and fluids. Your physician may prescribe medicine. After hours, your physician may have an answering service. Urgent care facilities are also a good option when your physician’s office is closed.

GO TO THE ER: If you’re having difficulty breathing, a prolonged high fever, severe dehydration or relapse after getting better.

FIRST: Typically, a strain or sprain can be evaluated in a physician’s office or urgent care center. You may be referred for tests, physical therapy or to a specialist.

GO TO THE ER: If you think you broke a bone.

FIRST: Imaging studies such as an MRI, CT scan or X-ray, can be performed at many area imaging centers.

GO TO THE ER: If your physician has expressed an urgent need for a test and it must be conducted after hours.

GO TO THE ER: If you hit your head, lose consciousness, experience a seizure and/or are vomiting.

It’s especially important to call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing chest and/or arm pain, trouble breathing, excessive sweating and fatigue. These can all be symptoms of a heart attack. Howard County Fire and Rescue Services are specially trained to evaluate and stabilize heart attack patients while our team mobilizes at the hospital to prepare for your arrival. Do not drive yourself to the hospital.

Your insurance company may have a nurse hotline that can provide treatment and care setting advice. Many physician practices now offer after-hours urgent care as well or an answering service, so check with your physician about these types of services. Also know that your primary care physician knows you and your medical history best and can often guide you to the appropriate treatment facility during office hours.