There were 131.3 million emergency department visits in 2020.
An emergency situation can happen, and it’s essential to recognize the signs and take action. A medical emergency is a situation where a person’s life or health is at risk, and immediate medical attention is necessary.
If you are wondering about the major signs of a medical emergency, this short and simple guide is for you.
Table of Contents
1. Chest Pain
Chest pain is a common sign of a medical emergency.
A variety of conditions can cause it, including a heart attack, pulmonary embolism, or aortic dissection. If you or someone you know experiences sudden, severe chest pain, call emergency services immediately.
2. Difficulty Breathing
If you or someone you know experiences difficulty breathing, call emergency services immediately.
Difficulty breathing can occur from an asthma attack, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, and more. It can land you in a hospital ICU room, so don’t wait.
3. Dizziness
Dizziness is a common symptom of many medical problems, including dehydration, low blood sugar levels, and high blood pressure.
It can also be a sign of other serious problems, such as stroke, heart attack, and brain hemorrhage. If you or someone you know experiences dizziness or fainting, call emergency services immediately.
4. Severe Headaches
Severe headaches are often a symptom of migraines and tension headaches.
However, they can also be a sign of more serious problems, such as brain tumors, strokes, and severe infections. If you or someone you know experiences a headache that causes nausea or vomiting, call your doctor right away.
5. Severe Bleeding
Severe bleeding can be a sign of several health problems, including ulcers and hemorrhoids.
It can also be a sign that you have an infection in your digestive tract or stomach lining. If you experience severe bleeding that doesn’t stop after trying the usual remedies, call your doctor right away.
6. Seizures
Several things can cause seizures, including brain tumors and strokes.
If you or someone you know experiences a seizure, call an ambulance right away. If you have seizures regularly and don’t know why, call your doctor.
7. Poisoning
Poisoning can happen when you swallow something that isn’t safe, like prescription drugs or household chemicals.
Poisoning can also happen if you breathe in, eat, or touch something poisonous. If you think someone has been poisoned, call an ambulance right away and follow the instructions of the first responders.
8. Allergic Reactions
Allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, from mild to life-threatening.
An allergic reaction is your body’s response to a substance, such as pollen or peanuts. If you or someone you know has an allergy and experiences the symptoms below, call an ambulance right away.
Medical Emergency: Seek Care Immediately
Recognizing the signs of a medical emergency is crucial to saving your life.
If you think you or someone else is having a medical emergency, seek care immediately. Call 911 and provide as much information as possible to the dispatcher, including your location and a description of the symptoms.
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