Symptom Checker: How to Research Your Symptoms

How to Research Your Symptoms

iSymptom is a plain-language reference, not an automated diagnostic tool and not a substitute for a professional evaluation. It cannot diagnose you. What it can do is help you understand what a symptom might mean and how to describe it to a clinician.

1. Start with your main symptom. Browse the Symptoms A-Z index or search from the homepage.
2. Read the common causes. Each symptom guide lists possible causes, from minor to serious, and the other symptoms that often appear alongside it.
3. Check the red flags. Every guide has a "When to See a Doctor" section. If your symptoms match an emergency warning sign, see our emergency guide and seek care now.
4. Explore related conditions. Follow the links to conditions that can cause your symptom to learn more.
5. Talk to a clinician. Bring what you have read, along with when your symptoms started and what makes them better or worse.

Important Limits

Many different conditions can cause the same symptom, and only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose you after considering your history and, where needed, examination and tests. Use this site for background and questions to ask — not as a diagnosis or treatment plan. If you feel very unwell or have any emergency warning sign, seek medical care immediately.