Whether you have a chronic illness like diabetes, asthma, or heart failure that requires additional medical care, or cold/flu-like symptoms that need to be monitored, it is important to plan ahead for what to do when you are sick.

Do you have a primary care physician? Make a plan with your doctor. 

Here’s how to get started:

When you meet with your doctor for a regular check-up, ask for their recommended care plan. If you require proactive care when symptoms persist, it may be helpful to hear from your doctor how they recommend you to take action. 

Have your doctor's contact information handy.

• Write down your doctor's name and phone number, and include any other emergency contact numbers.

• Keep a list of medicines you take.
  Include information about what medications and how much medicine you take, and when you take them. Do not take any over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, decongestants, or herbal products or other natural medicines, without talking to your doctor first.

• Write down your plan - what to do on days when you are sick. You can ask your doctor to help you answer these questions.

  • What do I do if my symptoms get worse?

  • Do you recommend any changes to my medicines?

  • What do I need to check or keep track of? (Examples include tracking blood sugar for diabetes, peak flow for asthma, or weight for heart failure.)

  • Do I need to change my diet or activities? (For example, your doctor may recommend changing the amount of fluids you drink or doing less exercise.)

  • Can I take any over-the-counter medicines, such as pain relievers, decongestants, or herbal products or other natural medicines?

  • When should I call the doctor's office? When should I call 911?

• Keep your plan in a handy place and let others know where you keep it.

   

Healthwise Content "© 2025 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor."