“Emergency” defines itself as an urgent situation. Anyone on this globe does not know when we get into such condition. Listed below are some helpful tips that can be remembered in an emergency condition.
1. Heart Attacks: Most heart attacks start slowly, with mild pain or discomfort. Often people affected aren’t sure what’s wrong and wait too long before getting help. Immediately call 911 or your emergency response number so an ambulance can be sent for you. Emergency medical services (EMS) staff can begin treatment when they arrive - up to an hour sooner than if someone gets to the hospital by car.
Some common symptoms of heart attacks are:
a. Chest discomfort
b. Uncomfortable pressure in the chest
c. Squeezing
d. Shortness of breath
e. Breaking out in a cold sweat, nausea or light headedness
2. Strokes: Strokes are life & death emergencies - every second counts. A Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA) is a “warning stroke” or “mini-stroke” that produces stroke-like symptoms but no lasting damage. Recognizing and treating TIAs may reduce the risk of a major stroke. The usual TIA symptoms are same as those of stroke, only temporary. The short duration of these symptoms and lack of permanent brain injury is the main difference between TIA and a stroke.
If one or more signs are present, then don’t delay:
a. Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg, especially on one side of the body
b. Sudden confusion, trouble in speaking or understanding
c. Problem in one or both eyes
d. Difficulty in walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
e. Severe headache with no known cause
3. Heat Exhaustion: Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of the water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Elder people, having high blood pressure and those working in a hot environment are more prone to heat exhaustion.
Some common symptoms of heat exhaustion are:
a. Heavy sweating
b. Extreme weakness or fatigue
c. Dizziness, confusion, nausea
d. Muscle cramps
e. Slightly elevated body temperature
f. Fast and shallow breathing
4. Concussion: Most people with a concussion recover quickly, but some can have the symptoms lasts for days, weeks or longer. Recovery may be slow in adults, young children and teens.
If you find any of the above signs and symptoms for heart attacks, strokes, heat exhaustion or concussion, then don’t wait to call 911 or your nearest emergency room to get the proper treatment on time, without any delay. Always remember, in life & death emergencies – “every second counts”.
Know more about the different types of diseases, their causes, symptoms and cure at http://aokemergencyroom.com/blog/.
