In the face of a medical emergency, it can be challenging to determine whether you need to call emergency medical services (EMS) or 9-1-1. Knowing when to call for help can be crucial for preventing further harm or even saving lives. To ensure you make the right decision, it’s important to understand which conditions always require immediate medical attention.
Remember, if you’re ever unsure whether a situation warrants a call to EMS/9-1-1, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Don’t hesitate to seek professional medical assistance if you witness someone experiencing any of the following life-threatening conditions:
Unconsciousness: If a person is unresponsive, not breathing, or has a seizure that lasts more than five minutes, call EMS/9-1-1 immediately. Choking: If a person is choking on food or an object and cannot clear their airway, call EMS/9-1-1. Severe bleeding: If a person is bleeding profusely from a wound, or if internal bleeding is suspected, call EMS/9-1-1.
When to Call EMS/9-1-1 for Chest Pain
Chest pain is a common complaint that can have a wide range of causes. While most chest pain is not life-threatening, there are certain warning signs that indicate a need to call EMS/9-1-1:
Sudden onset
If chest pain comes on suddenly and is severe, it could be a sign of a heart attack.
Pressure or tightness
Pain that feels like pressure or tightness in the chest, especially if accompanied by shortness of breath, could indicate angina or a heart attack.
Radiation
Pain that radiates down the arms, neck, or back could be a sign of a heart attack or other serious condition.
When to Call EMS/9-1-1 for Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath can be caused by a variety of conditions, ranging from minor allergies to life-threatening emergencies.
Sudden onset
If shortness of breath comes on suddenly, especially after exertion or exposure to an allergen, it could be a sign of an asthma attack or other respiratory emergency.
Severe difficulty breathing
If a person is struggling to breathe, unable to speak in complete sentences, or has a bluish tint to their lips or skin, it could be a sign of a life-threatening condition.
Chest pain or wheezing
Shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain or wheezing could indicate a heart attack, asthma attack, or other serious condition.
When to Call EMS/9-1-1 for Abdominal Pain
While most abdominal pain is not life-threatening, there are certain signs that indicate a need to call EMS/9-1-1:
Severe pain
Sharp, severe abdominal pain that comes and goes in waves could be a sign of kidney stones or other serious conditions.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting accompanied by severe abdominal pain could be a sign of food poisoning, appendicitis, or other gastrointestinal emergencies.
Fever
Abdominal pain with a fever could indicate a urinary tract infection, appendicitis, or other serious conditions.
When to Call EMS/9-1-1 for Head Injuries
Head injuries can range in severity from minor bumps to life-threatening emergencies. It’s crucial to call EMS/9-1-1 if you witness any of the following:
Loss of consciousness
If a person loses consciousness after a head injury, it could be a sign of a concussion or other serious injury.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting after a head injury can indicate a concussion or other serious injury.
Seizures
Seizures after a head injury are a sign of a serious brain injury and require immediate medical attention.
When to Call EMS/9-1-1 for Stroke Symptoms
Stroke symptoms can come on suddenly and worsen rapidly. It’s crucial to call EMS/9-1-1 if you witness any of the following:
Facial drooping
If one side of the face droops or becomes numb, it could be a sign of a stroke.
Arm weakness or numbness
If one arm becomes weak or numb, it could be a sign of a stroke.
Speech difficulties
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking is a common symptom of a stroke.
FAQ
What are the signs of a heart attack?
Chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, and pain that radiates down the arms, neck, or back.
When should I call EMS/9-1-1 for abdominal pain?
If the pain is severe, accompanied by nausea and vomiting, or accompanied by a fever.
What are the symptoms of a stroke?
Facial drooping, arm weakness or numbness, and speech difficulties.
What should I do if someone is choking?
Call EMS/9-1-1 immediately and perform the Heimlich maneuver if you are trained.
When is it okay to wait before calling EMS/9-1-1?
Never wait if a person is unconscious, not breathing, choking, bleeding profusely, experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, abdominal pain, a head injury, or stroke symptoms.
Conclusion
Knowing which conditions always require you to call EMS/9-1-1 can help you save a life. If you witness someone experiencing any of the symptoms discussed above, do not hesitate to call for emergency medical assistance. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to medical emergencies.