8 Health Emergencies You Can’t Take a Back Seat

No one knows when an emergency will happen, but it’s important to be prepared for anything. That’s why it’s crucial to know about the eight health emergencies that can’t take a backseat. Some of these emergencies may surprise you, while others are more common. But no matter what, it’s important to know how to handle them in case they occur. Even though we know we can get medical assistance quickly and prescriptions online these days, it’s best to be prepared. So without further ado, let’s get started!

Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Heart Attack

Heart attacks are the most common health emergency. Symptoms of a heart attack may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea and cold sweat. If you think someone is having a heart attack, call 911 immediately and have them rest until help arrives.

Stroke

A stroke is when the blood supply to part of your brain is suddenly cut off. It can cause paralysis or other problems with movement and speech. Common signs of a stroke include weakness on one side of the body, confusion and difficulty speaking or understanding language. If you think someone is experiencing a stroke, call 911 right away.

Severe Allergic Reactions

Severe allergic reactions can be life-threatening if left untreated. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling in the throat or face and hives over a large part of the body. If you think someone is having an allergic reaction, give them an epinephrine injection if available and call 911.

Asthma Attack

Asthma attacks can be dangerous if not treated properly. Symptoms include wheezing, coughing and shortness of breath. If you think someone is having an asthma attack, help them use their inhaler and then call 911 if their symptoms don’t improve quickly.

Diabetic Emergency (Hypoglycemia/Hyperglycemia)

Diabetic emergencies can happen when diabetes is not managed properly or when blood sugar levels become too high or too low. Symptoms of hypoglycemia include shakiness, confusion and sweating. Symptoms of hyperglycemia include frequent urination, blurred vision and intense thirst. If you think someone is having a diabetic emergency, give them the appropriate treatment (insulin or juice) depending on their symptoms.

Toothache

A toothache can be a sign of an underlying dental problem that needs emergency treatment. Symptoms include severe and persistent pain, swelling of the gums or jaw, fever and difficulty opening your mouth. If you think someone is having a toothache emergency, have them rinse their mouth with warm salt water and then call the dentist right away. Many practices, like Bella Vista Smiles, have emergency services available.

Choking

Choking can happen when food or another object gets stuck in someone’s throat. Common signs of choking include coughing, wheezing and inability to talk. If you think someone is choking, ask them if they are able to speak and give them abdominal thrusts if needed until help arrives.

Heat Stroke/Dehydration

Heat stroke occurs when your body overheats due to prolonged exposure to hot temperatures. Dehydration occurs when you don’t have enough fluids in your body. Symptoms of both conditions include confusion, dizziness and nausea. If you think someone is suffering from heat stroke or dehydration, have them rest in a cool place and give them water to drink (for dehydration).

While it’s important to know how to handle these eight health emergencies, it’s also important to remember that prevention is the best medicine. Make sure you get regular exercise, eat nutritious meals and see your doctor for checkups so that you can prevent potential health issues before they arise.