Visiting the Emergency Room: When Your Life Depends On It

Visiting the Emergency Room: When Your Life Depends On It

An emergency room visit is never ideal—and many of us try to avoid it. However, there are some moments that a visit to an urgent care center or family physician just won’t do. A snap decision—on whether to make the trip to the ER or not—could save a life. Here are some life threatening symptoms that you should never ignore:Emergency-care-blog

  1. Difficulty Breathing Any time a person is experiencing shortness of breath—the immediate response should be 911 or the emergency room. The victim may be experiencing an asthma attack, allergic reaction, or even a blockage. No matter the cause, oxygen is a necessity—so don’t waste time and get help right away.
  2. Loss of Consciousness, Seizure, or Confusion These symptoms can signify damage or swelling of the brain and require immediate care. A CAT scan can give an inside look at the cause—which will eliminate the need for guess work. When seeking care, every minute counts with brain or head traumas.
  3. Numbness, Severe Pain, or Loss of Function Be aware of F.A.S.T symptoms of a stroke: face drooping, arm weakness, speech difficulty-- time to call 911. Severe pains in the chest, head, or abdominal area (especially when coupled with other symptoms) should not be ignored. Any loss of functions, such as movement, bladder, or bowel control, signifies a need for immediate care and diagnosis.
  4. Cuts and Burns If a person experiences a deep cut or laceration—where muscles, tendons, or bones are exposed—the ER is a necessity. In addition, if there is a deep puncture wound or object embedded in the wound—a swift visit to the ER can help to prevent severe blood loss, shock, or infection. Any third degree burn (and some second degree burns) involving all layers of skin and underlying fat, also requires emergency care.
  5. Vomiting and Diarrhea Anytime there is blood in vomit or stool and is accompanied by significant pain or fever—it could be the sign of a serious infection, inflammation, or other condition. In addition, if you show signs of dehydration, the emergency staff can provide fluids to hydrate you. Another thing to watch for is bile in your vomit—which could indicate a bowel obstruction.

If you are ever in doubt of whether or not to go to the ER, always go. It is better to be turned away alive and healthy than to have ignored the signs of a life threatening condition. And, where you go matters. To simplify finding a top ER whether at home or on the road, the Women’s Choice Award America’s Best Hospitals for Emergency Care provides a list of 320 hospitals nationwide that have been vetted for their abilities to provide timely, life-saving care. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide medical advice or to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Always consult the advice of your medical provider.

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Author: Karen Mellor Karen is a women’s health and wellness advocate who writes to inspire mindfulness in daily living. She is an educator, wife, parent, and hostess-with-the-mostess. Karen hopes to share her tips for staying centered and embracing life’s moments: the good, the bad, and the utterly ridiculous. She believes a little ingenuity and a lot of laughter can instantly disarm stress and yield a more fulfilling, balanced life.

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