Why You Shouldn’t Put Off Medical Emergencies
Getting Medical Treatment During A Global Pandemic
There are virtually an unlimited number of illnesses and injuries, each with their own signs, symptoms, and potential treatments. What’s the one thing they all have in common? The sooner they are addressed by medical professionals, the greater the chance for effective treatment and a faster return to better health.
Unfortunately, too often people opt to either take a wait-and-see approach to a medical issue or just try to “tough it out” instead. This can be a potentially life-altering mistake, especially when fast, high-quality care is available close by at The Emergency Center.
Seek Early Medical Treatment To Avoid Complications
Many illnesses begin with mild symptoms—a cough, a low-grade fever, or mild aches. While initially addressing these types of symptoms at home may be reasonable, if they persist or get worse, it’s time to get it checked out rather than wait it out, as they may be a sign of something more serious.
Having an emergency illness addressed quickly can not only shorten the road to recovery but potentially be less costly in the long run.
Similarly, promptly seeking care for injuries is vital to avoid future complications and costs. For instance, broken bones or damaged joints that aren’t properly diagnosed and cared for immediately may not heal properly. This can mean either permanent impairment or an expensive surgical procedure and a lengthy rehabilitation process to correct in the future.
Symptoms That Require Immediate Medical Attention
Some patients delay care because they may not view the symptoms they are experiencing as an emergency or want to try treating them at home first. However, there are certain symptoms for which everyone should seek immediate medical attention.
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Blocked/partially blocked airway
- Weakness or numbness in part of the body
- Difficulty speaking
- Allergic reactions
- Potential issues with circulation (e.g., feeling faint/weak)
- Loss of consciousness or seizure
- Rash accompanied by fever
- Head trauma/concussion
- Potential bone or joint injury
- Deep cuts or bleeding that won’t stop
- Severe headache
- Severe abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting
These symptoms may indicate a life-threatening emergency or may lead to serious long-term health consequences if not cared for promptly. Trying to take care of these symptoms at home or wait them out wastes critical time.
Don’t Put Off Medical Care
Recent data suggests that some people are putting off medical care—including care for medical emergencies—due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s also a mistake.
Keep in mind that medical facilities capable of providing advanced care such as The Emergency Center always remain prepared to safely care for patients with contagious illnesses. In light of the global pandemic, these preparations have been taken to a new level with additional processes and equipment needed to protect everyone and keep COVID-19 from spreading.
There are few things in life more important than good health. That’s why getting you and your family’s unplanned medical needs met quickly at The Emergency Center should stay at the top of the to-do list.
Enjoy life. We’ll be here for the bumps along the way.
The Emergency Center
San Antonio
11320 Alamo Ranch Pkwy
San Antonio, TX 78253
Phone: 210-485-3644
