When Should You See a Primary Care Physician?

At Integra Primary Care, your health and well-being are our top priorities. Certain health concerns warrant prompt attention from your primary care team, as early evaluation can help prevent complications and ensure timely treatment.
 
If you experience sudden or severe chest pain—especially if it radiates to your arm, neck, or jaw, or is accompanied by shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea—you should seek immediate medical attention. Difficulty breathing, sudden onset of shortness of breath (even at rest or with minimal activity), or unexpected wheezing may signal respiratory or cardiac issues that need urgent evaluation by our providers.
 
A high fever that persists for more than a few days, or is accompanied by confusion, a stiff neck, or severe headache, may indicate a serious infection or other medical problems. Don’t hesitate to contact Integra Primary Care for guidance or to schedule a same-day appointment. If you develop sudden weakness, numbness, difficulty speaking, confusion, or loss of coordination, these could be signs of a stroke and require immediate emergency care.

Unexplained and significant changes in vision—such as sudden loss, blurriness, or double vision—should also prompt a visit to Integra Primary Care for evaluation.
 
Severe abdominal pain, especially if persistent or associated with vomiting, blood in stool or urine, or jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), can be a sign of a serious gastrointestinal or liver condition. Unusual bleeding, unexplained bruising, or new or rapidly changing skin lesions may also require urgent assessment from our experienced team.
 
Additionally, any new or worsening mental health symptoms—such as thoughts of self-harm or suicide, severe agitation, or confusion—should prompt immediate medical attention. Your mental health is just as important to us as your physical health.
 
At Integra Primary Care, we encourage you to reach out if you are ever unsure whether your symptoms are serious. It is always better to err on the side of caution. Early intervention can make a significant difference in outcomes for many acute health issues. Your Integra Primary Care team is here to support you—don’t hesitate to contact us for guidance or urgent appointments.

At Integra Primary Care, we believe that regular physical exams are the foundation of lifelong health and wellness. Scheduling your annual physical with our experienced providers not only helps monitor your current health but also allows us to create a personalized plan for your ongoing care.
 
While we recommend most adults visit us each year for a comprehensive physical exam, there are times when you may need to see your Integra Primary Care physician sooner. If you’ve noticed new or unusual symptoms—such as persistent fatigue, unexplained weight changes, ongoing pain, or changes in appetite or sleep patterns—don’t wait. These symptoms can signal underlying issues that should be evaluated by our medical team.
 
Even if you feel healthy, it’s important not to skip your annual exam. Regular visits at Integra Primary Care allow us to check your vital signs, keep your vaccinations up to date, screen for chronic conditions, and discuss preventive strategies tailored to your unique needs.
 
If you’re managing chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or high cholesterol, our team will work with you on a regular follow-up schedule to ensure your conditions are well-controlled and to adjust your treatment plan as needed. Additionally, if you have a family history of certain diseases, are due for screenings such as cholesterol or cancer checks, or are considering starting a new exercise routine, we encourage you to schedule a visit to make sure you’re on the right track.
 
Major life changes—including pregnancy, menopause, or periods of significant stress—are also important times to consult with your Integra Primary Care physician. We’re here to support you through every stage of life and provide guidance when your health needs change.

At Integra Primary Care, we believe that follow-up visits are a vital part of maintaining your health and well-being. Scheduling a follow-up appointment with our team is important in several situations to ensure you receive the best possible care.
 
After a Diagnosis or Treatment:
If you have recently received a new diagnosis or started treatment for a chronic condition, a follow-up visit at Integra Primary Care allows our providers to closely monitor your progress, evaluate how well your medications or therapies are working, and make any adjustments needed to optimize your care.
 
Post-Procedure or Surgery:
For patients who have undergone surgery or medical procedures, follow-up appointments are essential. During your visit, we’ll check for any signs of complications, assess your healing, and perform necessary care such as removing stitches or changing dressings.
 
Reviewing Test Results:
When you have lab tests, imaging, or other diagnostic procedures done, our providers will schedule a follow-up visit to review your results with you, explain what they mean, and develop a personalized plan for your ongoing care.
 
Persistent or Worsening Symptoms:
If you experience symptoms that do not improve, get worse, or return unexpectedly, we encourage you to contact Integra Primary Care. A follow-up visit allows us to reassess your condition and make any necessary changes to your treatment plan.
 
Chronic Condition Management:
For patients living with chronic health issues like diabetes, hypertension, or asthma, routine follow-up visits are key.
 
Starting New Medications:
If you are prescribed a new medication, follow-up visits help ensure you are tolerating it well and not experiencing side effects. Our team is here to answer your questions and address any concerns.
 
Preventive Care:
Integra Primary Care is committed to preventive health. We’ll remind you of necessary screenings and immunizations during your follow-up visits to help you stay on track with your health goals.

At Integra Primary Care, your health and well-being are our top priorities. Unexplained weight loss or gain can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health concern. That’s why it’s important to know when to seek advice from your Integra Primary Care physician.
 
If you have lost or gained more than 5% of your body weight over a period of six to twelve months without significant changes to your diet, physical activity, or lifestyle, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with our team. Other reasons to consult your Integra Primary Care provider include persistent fatigue, changes in appetite, digestive issues, swelling, shortness of breath, or changes in mood along with weight fluctuations.
 
We also recommend reaching out to us if you are living with a chronic condition—such as diabetes, thyroid disease, or heart disease—and notice unexpected weight changes. Early evaluation can help identify potential causes, such as hormonal imbalances, metabolic disorders, gastrointestinal issues, mental health conditions, or even certain cancers.
 
Our experienced providers will perform a thorough assessment, order any necessary tests, and work with you to develop a personalized treatment or management plan. If you are concerned about changes in your weight or overall health, don’t hesitate to contact Integra Primary Care. We are here to support you every step of the way.

At Integra Primary Care in Canton, MA, you partner with a physician-led team committed to a model of personalized, evidence-based primary care. They believe that effective care starts with listening, ensuring your treatment is always tailored to your specific needs and long-term health goals.

The practice is anchored by highly skilled providers like Muhammad Ali Haider Bajwa, MD, an internal medicine physician with a specialization in cardiac care and diabetes management. This expertise supports a broad range of comprehensive services designed to cover your entire wellness journey.

Key treatments include essential annual care like annual physicals and wellness exams, proactive services such as medical weight loss and preventive screenings, and robust support for managing chronic diseases (including diabetes, asthma, and high blood pressure). For convenience and acute needs, they also offer telehealth and sick visits, ensuring you have expert care whether you need routine maintenance or urgent attention.

Visit Integra Primary Care for personalized, comprehensive healthcare services tailored to your needs. For more information, contact us or request an appointment online. We are located at 95 Washington St, Ste 204 B, Canton, MA 02021. We serve patients from Canton MA, Sharon MA, Stoughton MA, Norwood MA, Walpole MA, Randolph MA, Mansfield MA, Dedham MA, and surrounding cities.