Unbearable Pain
Unbearable Pain If you’re in pain, it’s generally a good idea to go to an emergency room. It’s especially important if your pain is associated with tingling, numbness, or any loss of sensation (sometimes known as paresthesia). Whether or not you go will depend on how long you’ve had your symptoms and how long they’ve […]
Rashes or itchiness
Rashes or itchiness There could be serious underlying issues such as an allergic reaction, and itching can mean there’s a potential for infection. Seek medical attention right away if you have a rash that doesn’t go away after several days, or if it looks infected—for example, if it’s spreading or you see redness around your […]
Nausea, digestive issues
Nausea, digestive issues Nauseous and have abdominal cramps? You may need some Pepto or Imodium, but you can probably wait a day before you head out. Odds are it’s something minor that will resolve itself on its own with a little rest and relaxation. Yes, in rare cases it could be appendicitis or something else […]
Cuts that don’t involve much blood but might need stitches
Cuts that don’t involve much blood but might need stitches The amount of blood visible is minimal, but there’s too much at risk to wait. If a cut is deep enough that it could involve tendons or nerves, which are just under the skin and hard to see, head to an ER immediately. Tendon injuries […]
Moderate breathing difficulties
Moderate breathing difficulties If you have any doubt about your ability to breathe on your own or whether a bout of wheezing is normal, it’s best to get yourself checked out at an emergency room. These things can be symptoms of something serious, but they’re also more common than people realize. More than 10 million […]
Sprains and strains
Sprains and strains If you sprain or strain a muscle, ligament, tendon or joint—even if it doesn’t hurt much—you should go to your doctor. If you don’t get treatment for small injuries like these, they can lead to other problems down the road. Signs that a small injury might be developing into something bigger include […]
Persistent eye discomfort
Persistent eye discomfort Severe eye pain can be a sign of anything from dry eye or conjunctivitis (pinkeye) to glaucoma. Dry eye and pinkeye both cause persistent discomfort, and are generally easily treatable. That said, you should seek out medical attention for either condition. Glaucoma symptoms include blurred vision, changes in your peripheral vision, or […]
Flu, cold, sore throat, cough, fever
Flu, cold, sore throat, cough, fever You’re sick, but is it a trip-to-the-ER type of sick? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) urges patients with these kinds of symptoms to visit their primary care physicians. But if you can’t get in right away or your doctor isn’t available, emergency rooms are an option. […]
Six Reasons to Go to the Emergency Room
Six Reasons to Go to the Emergency Room If you are having trouble breathing, have chest pain or are experiencing a lot of swelling in your body, go immediately. Minor swelling, such as in your fingers or toes (which is caused by extra fluid), can be treated with medication at home. If it becomes painful, […]
High fever in infants
High fever in infants In infants, a high fever can be a sign of serious infection, including meningitis. Also look for signs of dehydration and shock in children. Parents often consider taking their child’s temperature rectally (this is only accurate if you are consistent with placement) or underarm but these methods are less reliable than […]