When to go to the Emergency room

Many people use the emergency room as their primary care clinic, which causes delays in ER treatment. Don’t go to the ER for minor illnesses like colds.  Either bring your prescription bottles with you or have a list of all your medications and diagnoses to help the ER staff take better care of you.

Reasons to go to the ER:

* Chest pain

* Severe shortness of breath

* Shortness of breath with exertion

* Rapid heart rate more than 120

* Paralysis or weakness of one side.

* Evaluation of an injury including x rays.

* Fever and urinary tract infection

* Black stools (implies stomach bleeding)

* Severe abdominal pain.

* Nausea and vomiting that won’t stop

* Seizure

* One leg swollen

* Fever and cough.

With anything other than these symptoms, you should see your primary care physician or urgent care.