Emergency room visits are an all-too-familiar occurrence for many of us. Several reasons exist for needing to visit the ER, from a broken bone to a severe allergic reaction.
However, some medical issues regarding emergency room visits are more common than others.
This article will explore the top five most common reasons to visit an emergency room near me, from minor issues such as sprains and strains to more severe problems such as heart attacks and strokes.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
1. Sprains and Strains
While most sprains and strains can be treated with rest, ice, compression, and elevation, severe cases may require medical intervention.
Sprains and strains can occur from overuse or a sudden, violent movement. A sprain is an injury to the ligaments, which are bands of fibrous tissue connecting bones. Tightness is an injury to the muscles and tendons, which are rope-like structures that connect muscles to bones.
The most prominent symptoms of a sprain or strain are pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility. If the pain is severe or the joint is unstable, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
2. Heart Attack and Stroke
Heart attacks and strokes are among the most serious medical emergencies, accounting for over 800,000 cases annually.
A heart attack arises when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the heart is blocked, while a stroke occurs when the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the brain is blocked.
The most common heart attack or stroke symptoms are chest pain, numbness or paralysis in the face or limbs, difficulty speaking, sudden confusion, and shortness of breath.
3. Abdominal Pain
Various conditions, including appendicitis, gallstones, chronic kidney diseases (CKD stage 3, stage 5), and other gastrointestinal issues, can cause abdominal pain.
Common symptoms of abdominal pain include discomfort in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, and fever. It is essential to seek medical attention immediately if the pain is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, such as bloody stools or vomiting.
4. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions are also a common reason for an emergency room. Food, medication, insect stings, or contact with an allergen can trigger allergic reactions.
Hives, itching, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing, and dizziness characterize allergic reactions.
5. Injuries From Falls
As per the CDC, injuries from falls are another common reason for an emergency room visit, accounting for over 1,000,000 cases each year. Falls can occur due to slips, trips, or other accidents and can cause injuries, from minor scrapes and bruises to more severe injuries, such as broken bones and head trauma.
The most common symptoms of an injury from a fall are pain, swelling, bruising, and limited mobility.
In Conclusion
Visiting an emergency room near me can be stressful and frightening, but receiving the medical care you need is often necessary. Knowing the symptoms of the most common emergency room visits can help you decide when to seek medical attention.
Being prepared and informed can help ensure you get the medical care you need when you need it.
