Symptoms
Common symptoms: causes and when to worry
With common symptoms such as fever, cough, headache or a skin rash, these pages help you know when to worry. They explain the most common causes, the warning signs that mean going to the ER, and when a video visit with the doctor is a good option, for adults and for children of all ages.
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Symptoms
31First, rule out an emergency
For trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, a baby under 3 months with a fever, or a child who is hard to wake, stop reading: call 911 or go to the ER. See the warning signs for going to the ER.
Common symptoms: when to worry and when to book a visit
Most fevers, coughs, headaches and rashes can be assessed by video. The doctor asks questions, examines you on camera and tells you what is going on; if needed, she gives you a lab order for a lab near you. If appropriate, she prescribes and we send your prescription to your pharmacy.
For things that can't wait, use virtual urgent care. If the symptom points to a specific condition, see the conditions we treat; for dengue, certificates or getting sick on vacation, see our guides.
Symptoms in children
We see children of all ages, with a parent or legal guardian on camera. The children's pages explain, for example, fever in children and when to worry at each age. To book, see online doctor visits for kids.
Is this an emergency?
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room for chest pain, trouble breathing, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, confusion, bleeding that will not stop, or if you think your life is in danger.
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About this page
Author: The Health Initiative
Medical care provided by Dr. Diana Nieves Castro, MD (PR license 24027)
Disclosure: Founding Executive Director of The Health Initiative
Published: 2026-10-02 · Updated: 2026-10-02