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Time for the ER
These are just a few of the conditions that are medical emergencies:
• Persistent chest pain, especially if it radiates to your
arm or jaw or is accompanied by sweating, vomiting or
shortness of breath
• Persistent shortness of breath or wheezing
• Severe pain, particularly in the abdomen or starting halfway
down the back
Loss of balance or fainting
• Difficulty speaking, altered mental status or confusion
• Weakness or paralysis • Newborn baby with a fever (Health Book 6-7) -
When to Call 9-1-1
For certain medical emergencies, such as a heart attack
or stroke, taking an ambulance is safer because
paramedics can deliver life-saving care on the way
to the hospital. (Health Book 7) -
Urgent Care is Not Emergency Care
Some symptoms that can be treated at urgent care include:
• Fever without rash
• Minor trauma such as a common sprain
• Painful urination
• Persistent diarrhea
• Severe sore throat
• Vomiting
(Health Book 8) -
When to Call 9-1-1
Urgent care departments are same-day clinics that can handle
a variety of conditions that need to be treated right away but
are not emergencies. -
Having a Primary Care Doctors
Having a regular doctor is important when you’re considering
treatment options. “There are some straightforward things in
medicine, but a lot of it is you and the doctor coming to an
agreement about the risks and benefits of treatments,” said
Dr. Stephan. “It’s nice if you have a relationship to start from.” (Health Book 8) -
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