Common Symptoms in Primary Care - FM Flashcards
What are the two main classifications of symptoms in primary care?
General symptoms and symptoms based on the affected body system.
List three examples of general symptoms.
Fever, fatigue, and weight loss or gain.
What red flags should be noted with chest pain?
Sudden, severe chest pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back, with shortness of breath or diaphoresis.
Name common causes of shortness of breath.
Asthma, COPD, pneumonia, heart failure, pulmonary embolism, anemia, or anxiety.
What should be assessed when a patient presents with palpitations?
Duration, triggers, exertion-related occurrence, and associated symptoms like dizziness or chest pain.
What are common causes of a chronic cough?
Respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, acid reflux, and COPD.
What are the red flags associated with cough?
Haemoptysis, cough lasting more than 3 weeks, weight loss, or night sweats.
What is a common viral and a common bacterial cause of sore throat?
Viral: common cold; Bacterial: streptococcal pharyngitis.
What conditions are often associated with wheezing?
Asthma, COPD, allergic reactions, respiratory infections, or heart failure.
What are common causes of abdominal pain in primary care?
Gastroenteritis, acid reflux, peptic ulcer, appendicitis, gallstones, IBS, or menstrual cramps.
Which symptoms may suggest a gastrointestinal obstruction?
Nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, and absent bowel sounds.
What are red flags for diarrhoea or constipation?
Blood in stool, unexplained weight loss, or a personal or family history of cancer.
What are red flags in headache presentation?
Sudden severe headache, visual changes, or neurological signs like weakness or confusion.
What are possible causes of dizziness or vertigo?
Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), stroke, arrhythmia, or inner ear disorders.
Which conditions can cause numbness or tingling?
Diabetic neuropathy, multiple sclerosis, vitamin deficiencies, or peripheral nerve damage.
What are red flags in joint pain?
Sudden onset of severe joint pain, fever, or joint swelling.
What should be suspected if back pain is associated with leg weakness or bowel/bladder dysfunction?
Possible spinal cord compression or cauda equina syndrome.
What common symptoms are associated with the integumentary system?
Rash, itching, skin redness, acne, and dermatitis.
What are typical symptoms of a urinary tract infection?
Dysuria, urinary frequency, and lower abdominal discomfort.
Name common endocrine-related symptoms seen in primary care.
Fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, cold/heat intolerance, and hair or skin changes.
