How long would you wait to see a doctor in my case? I've had growing twinges of pain (aching, shooting, cramping) in a few places around my hip since about September, but on and off before that too. I've had rare relief in the last month based on (I think?) my sleeping position. But lately it's been constant and seems to be spreading further down my leg and up my side. Yesterday I noticed swelling over one of the painful spots. It's somewhat raised, and about 2.5 inches in diameter. I saw a doctor yesterday, and she wasn't worried. She told me to apply ice, and monitor it over the next little while.

So it has already been months with pain. How long would you wait, if the pain and/or swelling get worse, before bothering the doctor again?