Quick action during emergency situations can save lives. The emergency room (ER) is where you go if you need urgent assessment and treatment. To help you decide when to call for an emergency room in san antonio, here are health situations that need a visit to the ER.
1. Severe Allergic Reactions. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. The first noticeable symptoms are swelling of the face and throat. The patient may also start to have hives and experience difficulty breathing. A severe allergic reaction from any trigger requires immediate medical attention. Use the EpiPen if you have it, and seek ER care.
2. Chest Pain. Tightness or any discomfort in the area are the common signs to watch out for. Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms persist and start to radiate to your arm, jaw, or back. ER doctors or nurses can help determine what to do next.
3. Difficulty Breathing. Sudden, severe shortness of breath can be a serious respiratory problem. You might be having an asthma attack. These symptoms can also be due to a severe allergic reaction or heart failure. Go to the ER and get checked by a medical professional.
4. Fainting. Sudden loss of consciousness accompanied by an altered mental status should not be taken lightly. This can indicate a serious underlying medical issue. Fainting can be due to a lot of health reasons. Most are from seizures, sudden drops in blood sugar levels, head injuries, etc. An emergency room visit will allow for a more thorough evaluation.
5. Seizures. If an episode lasts longer than five minutes, it can be life-threatening. Whether this is a first, a repeated seizure, or without regaining consciousness, it should be considered a medical emergency. An evaluation in the emergency room is crucial to determine the cause of the seizures and provide proper treatment.
Do These During Emergency Situations
During emergency medical situations, it is important that you know what to do. Always prioritize safety and follow these key steps:
- Call for Help: If you are not sure of what to do, call emergency services immediately.
- Stay Calm: Keep a clear mind to allow you to make rational decisions.
- Provide First Aid: If trained, administer first aid or life support like CPR.
- Stay With the Patient: Do not leave the person needing medical assistance until the medical team arrives.
An emergency room visit is the best option for these urgent situations. Yet it is crucial that for non-emergencies or less severe health concerns, consider other ways to seek assistance. Primary care doctors, urgent care clinics, or telemedicine services can also be a more cost-effective option. Remember that understanding the situation of when to go to the ER is crucial.
