Assuming no prior medical or scientific knowledge this reference book helps the user to reach informed conclusions quickly about the condition from which he or she may be suffering and whether or not medical help should be sought. Information is also given on the tests that might be carried out in a hospital and the medications prescribed, and any advice necessary to aid recovery after illness is offered. All the symptoms are listed alphabetically, and each entry is given a symbol to provide an instant visual indication of its severity. Straightforward illustrations show body systems and locations of symptoms.