When Should You Go to the Emergency Room?
Knowing exactly when you should seek emergency care is important. A trip to the Emergency Room is something that can be stressful, so we want you to be as prepared as possible. Here are a few simple guidelines from the board-certified emergency care physicians on staff at Swedish Covenant Hospital that can help you determine when to go to the Emergency Room versus making an appointment with your primary care physician.
If you are ever unsure whether or not to seek care, or if your situation does not match one of the items listed below, call your doctor. If you are unable to reach the doctor, feel free to go to the Emergency Room.
Life-Threatening Emergencies
In a life-threatening emergency, seek immediate attention by calling 911 or going to the Emergency Room at your nearest hospital.
Examples of situations that may be life threatening include:
- Repeated attacks of chest pain or pressure with sweating, pain in the jaw or arms
- Choking
- Loss of consciousness
- Not breathing or difficulty breathing
- Suspected poisoning or overdose
- Severe injuries, such as suspected broken bones, head injuries or heavy bleeding
- Suicide attempt
- Seizures or convulsions
- Numbness or paralysis of an arm, leg or one side of the body
- A sudden, severe headache, especially if there is neck pain or a change in consciousness at the same time
- Domestic violence or rape
- Coughing up blood
- Vomiting blood or something that looks like coffee grounds
- A change in mental ability, such as not knowing where you are or being unable to recognize familiar people
- Heavy vaginal bleeding
Routine Medical Problems
Routine medical problems are those that are not life-threatening emergencies or urgent medical problems. For these problems or situations, you should make an appointment with your physician or clinic.
Routine medical problems include:
- Immunizations
- School check-ups
- Colds and sore throats
- Important health maintenance visits, including mammograms, pap and pelvic exams and prostate exams
- Follow-up visits for chronic problems such as diabetes or high blood pressure
- Prenatal visits
Remember, these are simply guidelines for when to seek emergency care. Your primary care physician is the best source of information on your personal condition. If you do go to the Emergency Room, be sure to let your physician know as soon as possible, so he is aware of your complete health picture.
Do you need a Primary Care Physician? Call our Call Center at (773) 878-6888 or Find a Doctor online >
