General Physician

Who is a General Physician?

General Physicians are highly trained medical professionals who offer a wide range of non-surgical healthcare services to patients. They treat various health conditions, including those that are mild, serious and unusual, until the patients have fully recovered or stabilized. General Physicians offer services to patients of all ages; adults, adolescents, and children.

When Should I see a General Physician:

You should visit a General Physician if you have the following symptoms:

• Persistent high fever lasting for more than 3 days
• Severe cold or flu
• Sudden weight changes (gain/loss)
• Running out of breath even after simple or easy exercise
• Severe abdominal, chest, or pelvic pain
• Changes in bowel movements/passing stools routine
• Urination changes (color/appearance/frequency)
• Unusual changes in mood or behavior
• Forgetfulness affecting daily chores/routine
• Bright flashes
• Falling unconscious
• Excessive bleeding or bruising
• Unusual reactions or changes to medicines

What is the difference between a General Physician and an Internist (doctor specializing in Internal medicine)?

A General Physician treats patients of all ages, including adults, adolescents, and children. In contrast, an Internist treats adults only. However, both are medical practitioners that apply clinical knowledge and expertise to diagnose and treat various medical conditions.

Common Problems Treated by a General Physician

Roles of a General Physician

General Physicians mostly see patients referred to them by other doctors, usually the patients’ general practitioners.

• Complete Approach:

  A General Physician’s assessment and checkup is thorough and comprehensive. The abnormality, whether one or more, are all detected which may otherwise be missed.

• Intensive Care:

  General Physicians are professionals highly trained to treat patients with all types of diseases; the simplest and most complex. Their broad expertise enables them to reach correct diagnosis and initiate effective treatment.

• Procedures:

  General Physicians do not perform surgical procedures; however, they can efficiently carry out various medical procedures that help in diagnosis and treatment.

• Diagnosis and Treatment:

  General Physicians have vast medical knowledge associated with all body systems and their respective functions. Through various clinical tests, report analysis, and other findings, they can correctly diagnose the most complex diseases and disorders while ensuring the patient’s safety and satisfaction.

• Pre- and Post-Operative Assessment:

  General Physicians frequently review patients before and after surgery. They help track progress and recommend appropriate measures and treatments to minimize risks and complications.

General Physicians commonly treat the following:

• Allergies
• Respiratory or breathing disorders, such as Bronchitis and Asthma
• Migraines and headaches
• Mild bacterial/fungal/viral infections e.g. ear infections, gastrointestinal infections
• Fever
• Flu, cough, common cold
• Minor pain and sprains
• Gastrointestinal disturbances including heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease

When to consult a General Physician:

Fever follows infections in most cases; it is one of the ways by which the human body fights infectious organisms. However, if your fever is greater than 103 Fahrenheit (39.4 Celsius) or persists for more than three days, please see a doctor immediately.Other symptoms indicating a visit to the General Physician include

• Severe pain
• No improvement in condition for more than three days
• Severe discomfort

Common diseases treated by General Physicians:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• High or Low blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Migraines and headaches
• Bladder infections
• Respiratory and Sinus infections
• Severe pain