5 Medical Symptoms You Should Never Ignore - Legacy ER

According to a Milliman study, anywhere from 44-65% of ER episodes could have been treated in an urgent care setting. Sometimes it can be difficult to know which services to use in a medical emergency, but choosing an emergency service is better than ignoring symptoms altogether. 

You might be able to brush off a stuffy nose or light lacerations, but there are certain symptoms you absolutely shouldn’t ignore. Here’s a short list of symptoms you need to seek treatment for right away to avoid serious issues. 

Sudden, Intense Head Pain 

It’s normal to get a slight headache if you’re dehydrated or having sinus issues, but if you experience sudden and severe head pain, then you should definitely seek out help from your family medicine practice. Your doctor may try to rule out meningitis first, as symptoms include severe head pain and neck stiffness. 

Chest Pain 

Any pressure on your chest is a sign of medical issues. If you feel intense discomfort, like someone placed a weight on your chest, you need to get checked out immediately. This type of chest pain can be indicative of a heart attack or serious gastrointestinal issues. 

Rectal Bleeding 

Hemorrhoids aren’t uncommon, but they’re still a serious issue. If you notice any blood in your stool at all, you should visit an urgent care center or go straight to emergency services. 

Shortness of Breath 

It’s normal to catch your breath after you’ve just finished a vigorous workout, but finding yourself short of breath after completing simple tasks is a sign of a bigger problem. When shortness of breath is accompanied by chest pain or swelling in the feet, it’s time to call on your family medicine provider. 

Sudden Confusion 

Experiencing sudden confusion is often indicative of a problem within the brain. It could be swelling, bleeding, or even a tumor that’s causing the issue. These instances are urgent medical needs and require immediate attention. 

When it comes to health problems, don’t procrastinate. If you or someone you know experiences any one of these symptoms, don’t ignore them. Seek out medical help and make sure there’s nothing seriously wrong.