The difference between shin splints and a fracture?

mrslondon

So I stupidly decided to go head first when I started working out a week ago. I did OK the first day, I walked for 10 minutes, 6 minutes fast walking and four, 1 minute bursts of running. Now keep in mind that previous to this, I did NOTHING AT ALL. Stupidly I decided to increase everyday for the next 3 days, until I got to 20 minutes, 2 minutes walking, 1 minute running. My lower calf os so sore, it feels like someone has hit the bones with a steel rod. I gave myself a hairline fracture once before and it feels similar but this is on both legs in the same place, lower calf/shin area, above ankle, on the inside of my leg. I have since stopped running, just using the bike and elliptical so there is no pressure on my legs. My legs really hurt, it is very painful to walk up and down stairs and running of any kind is out the question. How can I tell the difference between shin splints and another hairline stress fracture and do I need to see my doctor? It has been hurting for around a week now. Im just trying to lose weight, why does this always have to be so difficult??!!