WHEN TO GO TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM (ER)

WHEN TO GO TO ER 

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?
Source: The American College of Emergency Physicians Foundation and other sources