Did you know that about 124 million Americans visit the ER every year? The ER or emergency room is a specialized area of the hospital – although it can be a freestanding facility – that offers emergency medical care to patients with acute symptoms. Going to the ER is often a harrowing experience because, as the name suggests, the condition that takes you there often occurs unexpectedly. Sometimes, you may not even be sure whether your situation warrants a visit to the freestanding emergency room Spring. Here is a look at the five top ER-worthy conditions.
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Chest Pain and Upper Respiratory Infections
You should never ignore chest pain as it could be an early sign of a serious cardiovascular problem like a heart attack. This condition is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, affecting millions yearly. However, you should still visit an ER even when chest pain does not indicate heart problems. It can be a symptom of an upper respiratory infection like the common cold or flu. These conditions can be an emergency, especially when they are accompanied by trouble breathing.
Broken Bones, Sprains, Contusions, and Cuts
Sprains and broken bones are common injuries caused by an unnatural movement of the body during physical activity, an auto accident, or sports. While not all sprains warrant an ER visit, you should always get a broken bone checked out immediately. This is especially true when it might injure other organs. You can visit the ER for a sprain if it is accompanied by swelling and discoloration. Similarly, if you cut yourself using a sharp object, visit the ER, especially if you are bleeding heavily.
Headaches
Headaches are the leading cause of ER visits. Although a mild headache may resolve on its own with OTC medication or rest, severe persistent headaches can be debilitating. They can make it difficult for you to do anything, including go to work, school, or even sleep. If you have a blinding headache or migraine, you should head to the ER so your doctor can rule out brain tumors and cerebral hemorrhaging.
Abdominal Pain and Back Pain
Abdominal pains are responsible for approximately 2000 ER visits every day. This condition is best diagnosed and treated early because it could be a sign of Irritable Bowel Syndrome, ulcers, appendicitis, stomach virus, kidney stones, allergies, or food poisoning. Because of their ability to cause severe pain and worsen without treatment, these conditions require prompt treatment.
Dentists’ offices are not always open, and dental emergencies cannot usually wait for the next day due to the severe pain they cause. This is why many people go to the ER with tooth-related problems like bleeding gums, abscesses, broken teeth, and tongue lacerations. Additionally, some of these conditions, like a ruptured abscess, can be very serious and require fast treatment.
Emergency rooms are prompt, usually addressing your symptoms without the extensive wait times typical of other hospital wings. They are always open and easily accessible in your neighborhood. If you believe your condition warrants a visit to the ER, you should not waste time driving to one. Such conditions can escalate and become more severe or life-threatening if not treated immediately. When in doubt, call your nearest ER to ask whether you should go in for treatment.
