June 21, 2010CHICAGO (AP) -- Wondering whether an illness or injury warrants a trip to the emergency room is a common quandary. With severe, life-threatening conditions, call 911. Here are some other symptoms experts say require an ER visit:
-Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
-Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure lasting two minutes or more
-Severe persistent abdominal pain
-Loss of consciousness, or sudden dizziness and weakness
-Sudden changes in vision or difficulty speaking
-Confusion or changes in mental status
-Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
-Severe sprain or suspected broken bone, usually involving more pain and swelling than a minor sprain, which doesn't merit emergency care.
To avoid unnecessary tests and procedures once you get to the ER ask lots of questions:
-Is this the best test or treatment?
-What are its costs, benefits, and risks?
-Are there alternative tests that are cheaper or less risky?
-Why do I need this test now, and what would happen if I don't get it now?
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From The American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation and other sources.
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