There are a few telltale signs that what you're feeling is more than just everyday aches and pains. The first clue is your level of PAIN. The more intense, the more likely there's something wrong. If this extreme pain started right after an injury or a fall, don't wait to seek medical attention. You may have a break or a severely torn tendon or muscle. A second sign is how well your joint responds to basic at-home treatment. Try icing your joint for 15 to 20 minutes a few times a day. Also, try taking a medication such as ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce swelling. If your joint remains swollen or stiff for more than three days, schedule an appointment with your doctor. And a third hint: Ask yourself, 'What other symptoms am I experiencing?' If you have a fever, bleeding, or sudden weight loss of 10 pounds or more, seek medical help IMMEDIATELY. These additional symptoms could indicate that you have an infection or disease and joint pain is a symptom. If you're unsure, err on the side of caution. At the very least, your doctor can give you advice on how to take care of your discomfort. To learn more about common causes of joint pain check out the rest of the videos in this series.