It can be difficult to determine when it’s necessary to go to the emergency room. Sometimes symptoms may seem mild, but could be indicators of severe underlying issues.
It’s essential to be aware of the following warning signs and to seek medical attention quickly if experiencing them.
Chest Pain and Sudden Shortness of Breath
Chest pain and sudden shortness of breath might indicate serious allergic reactions or heart problems. Don’t ignore this pain, especially if it is accompanied by difficulty breathing, sweating, and/or nausea.
Slurred Speech, Confusion, and Weakness on One Side of the Body
Stroke happens when the blood flow in the brain is disrupted. Seek medical treatment immediately if you are experiencing symptoms such as slurred speech, confusion, and weakness or numbness on one side of the body.
Severe Headache
A sudden, severe headache can be a sign of numerous health conditions, including aneurysm and brain bleeding. These symptoms offer the best indication that immediate medical treatment is required.
Seizures
Seizures should never be left untreated or ignored. They can be caused by a wide range of medical issues, including epilepsy, stroke, head injury, high fever, and others. It’s imperative to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Uncontrollable Bleeding
Injuries that result in uncontrollable bleeding can be life-threatening. When these incidents occur, it’s important to get immediate medical attention.
Severe Abdominal Pain
Severe abdominal pain is a warning sign that could indicate various health issues, including infections, appendicitis, gallstones, and others. Visit your local emergency room if you have unexplained abdominal pain accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea.
Difficulty Breathing
People with breathing difficulties should immediately visit the emergency room.
It’s important to address these warnings signs right away considering that they could be caused by allergic reactions, asthma, severe pneumonia, and tar around the lungs.
Injuries to the Head or Spine
Any injury to the head or spine should be viewed seriously. These types of injuries could potentially cause lasting damage or even death if left untreated. Seek medical care as soon as possible if you experience accidents to the head or spine.
High Fever and Stiff Neck
A high fever followed by neck stiffness could be a sign of meningitis, an infection that attacks the protective covering around the spinal cord and brain. People who encounter these symptoms must receive prompt treatment for meningitis.
Severe Depression or Suicidal Thoughts
Emergency treatment is required for individuals suffering from depression and thoughts of suicide. Don’t hesitate to seek immediate help from a medical facility or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.