Ear pain or discomfort This can signal an ear infection or perforation of the eardrum. If you’re experiencing either, visit a hospital immediately. If you

Severe Allergic Reactions When you experience a severe allergic reaction, particularly if you have any trouble breathing or swallowing, your skin begins to swell and

Breathing Difficulties If you’re having trouble breathing, medical attention is crucial. Call 911 right away, but if you can’t get an immediate response—and it’s an

Loss of Consciousness When you lose consciousness or experience confusion, you need medical attention right away. Have someone call 911 and get to an emergency

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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