Diseases never come with a warning, but one thing that troubles everyone is deciding which doctor to consult. Many times, especially as new parents, we tend to approach a specialist directly — which can sometimes turn out to be the wrong and more expensive choice.

Through this blog, we aim to guide you on which doctor you should consult first whenever you or someone in your family falls ill.

The truth is, in most cases, a general practitioner or physician should be your first point of contact. They are trained to handle a wide range of health issues and can guide you to the right specialist if needed. However, in case of a medical emergency — such as severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding, or unconsciousness — it’s best to go straight to the emergency department or consult a specialist immediately.

Who is a General Physician?

A general physician (often called a family doctor or general doctor), also known as a general practitioner (GP), is a medical doctor who offers overall, non-surgical care for people of all age groups. They are usually the first doctor patients visit when they need medical advice or treatment for common illnesses or injuries. General physicians are trained to diagnose and treat a wide variety of health conditions, and if needed, they can refer patients to the right specialist for further care.

Dr. Chhagan Khartode, an experienced consultant physician in Manjari, Pune, provides primary care for individuals of all age groups and helps manage both acute and chronic illnesses effectively. His role as a general physician ensures patients receive the right treatment early, preventing complications and the need for unnecessary specialist referrals.

When Should You Visit a General Physician?

If you are experiencing any of the following common symptoms, it’s best to consult a general physician first:

• Fever (mild or persistent)

• Body aches or weakness

• Cold, cough, or sore throat

• Headaches or dizziness

• Stomach pain, gas, or indigestion

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Mild chest pain or discomfort

• Skin allergies or rashes

• Fatigue or low energy

• Minor injuries, infections, or wounds

• General health check-ups and preventive care

These symptoms may seem minor at first, but they could be early signs of something more serious. A consultant physician Dr. Chhagan Khartode can help diagnose the root cause and begin proper treatment immediately.

Why Choose a General Physician First?

• Wide knowledge of various health conditions

• Helps avoid unnecessary specialist visits

• Cost-effective and time-saving

• Can refer you to a specialist if needed

• Best for first-line treatment and regular check-ups

A general physician can manage your overall health and track your progress over time, making them essential for long-term care.

When to Seek Urgent Help

While a general physician can handle most health problems, you should seek emergency care or consult a specialist immediately if you experience:

• Severe chest pain

• Breathing difficulties

• Sudden loss of consciousness

• High fever that doesn’t reduce

• Serious injuries or trauma

In all other cases, visiting a general doctor is the safest and smartest first step.

Conclusion

If you’re feeling unwell and don’t know which doctor to consult, start with a trusted general physician. Dr. Chhagan Khartode, a well-known consultant physician in Manjari, Pune, offers experienced care for a wide range of health issues. Whether it’s a fever, weakness, digestion problems, or routine check-ups, he can guide you with the right diagnosis and treatment.

Don’t ignore your symptoms — visit a general physician in Manjari Pune, early for better health outcomes.