If one of your loved ones is experiencing a medical emergency, then it is important for you to call 911 as soon as possible. Delayed medical treatment can result in serious complications and/or death. That is why it is critical for you to recognize the signs of common medical emergencies. Below are some of the most common medical emergencies and the symptoms that may accompany them:
Heart Attack
A heart attack is sometimes called a myocardial infarction. It occurs when blood stops flowing to a portion of the heart. The heart muscle will suffer damage if there is not enough blood circulating to it. Chest pain is a symptom that is common in heart attack sufferers. However, it is important to note that women who have a heart attack may experience different symptoms than men. In fact, it is estimated that nearly 64 percent of female heart attack sufferers do not have any chest pain. Some of the other symptoms of a heart attack may include irregular heartbeat, jaw pain, shortness of breath, nausea and fatigue.
Diabetic Coma
A diabetic coma can occur if a person’s blood sugar gets dangerously low or high. Many people who suffer from diabetes wear ID wristbands. If a diabetic coma is not treated, then it can result in death. People who are in a diabetic coma are unable to respond to sounds, sights or any type of stimulation.
A person will most likely experience symptoms before going into a diabetic coma. Some of the symptoms of dangerously high blood sugar include rapid heartbeat, increased thirst, dry mouth and vomiting. Fatigue, sweating, hunger and irregular heartbeat are some of the signs of extremely low blood sugar.
Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when blood circulation to a portion of the brain is reduced or stopped completely. If blood flow is not restored, then brain cells will die. Many patients who are having a stroke may have problems walking. Slurred speech, facial paralysis, blurred vision and headaches are some of the other symptoms that are common among patients who are having a stroke.
Hyperthermia
Hyperthermia is the medical term for an elevated body temperature. A normal body temperature is around 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Any temperature above 100.9 degrees Fahrenheit is considered hyperthermic. A body temperature above 104 degrees Fahrenheit can potentially be life-threatening.
Dry, hot skin is one of the most common signs of hyperthermia. This occurs because the blood vessels dilate. Profuse sweating is another common sign of hyperthermia. The body tries to cool the skin by producing excess amounts of sweat. Other signs of hyperthermia may include low blood pressure, fainting and dizziness.
Heat stroke is one of the most common causes of hyperthermia. The use of certain medications can also lead to hyperthermia. Additionally, many people are required to wear personal protective equipment because of the industry that they work in. This can result in hyperthermia.
Asthma Attack
Asthma is a medical condition that causes the muscles surrounding the airways to tighten. Even though asthma can be controlled with medication, many people still suffer from asthma attacks. Breathing problems, chest pain and chest tightening are some of the common signs of an asthma attack. Pale, sweaty skin and blue lips are some of the other symptoms a person may experience.
Asthma attacks, heart attacks, stroke, hyperthermia and diabetic coma are some of the many medical emergencies that a person can potentially experience. Fortunately, people who get treated right away can survive without suffering lasting complications. The key is to recognize the symptoms and contact emergency medical services as soon as possible.
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