Should I Go to the Emergency Room for My Headache or Migraine? - Legacy ER

If you have experienced headaches or migraines in the past, then you are well aware of how crippling they can be. At times, migraine sufferers are left with nothing to do except lay in bed and try not to feel miserable. But do these ever merit an emergency room visit?

Well, there are some times when you may need to visit urgent care or receive emergency services for your head pain. Learn more about these instances below, then depend on our crew to help you out if you are in an emergency situation. Legacy is here for you every step of the way.

Symptoms are Abnormal or Unusual

If you get frequent migraines, then you know what to expect in terms of symptoms. That being said, sometimes people experience things out of the norm, in which case the ailment may be more severe than a standard headache or migraine.

What signs should you look out for? Keep these symptoms in mind: any type of vision loss, numbness, excessive vomiting, weakness, dizziness or loss of balance, confusion, trouble speaking, or anything similar that seems extreme or unusual. In these cases, an emergency room visit is definitely warranted.

You’re Pregnant

Pregnancy requires women to take extra precautions in various areas of life and, if you are experiencing severe head pain, you or your baby could be at risk. Unusually strong headaches or migraines could be a sign of preeclampsia, and you will want to seek immediate medical treatment to ensure you and the child stay as safe as possible.

You’ve Been Injured

Whether you fell at work, got in a car accident, had an incident at home, or something else, headaches after a head injury should always be looked into by some trusted experts in emergency care. You may be experiencing a concussion or some other type of trauma, in which case you will need some further care to avoid long-term issues.

You’ve Recently Changed Medications

If you are switching medications or have just started taking something new, then it is possible that a severe or abnormal migraine is a side effect of this. To avoid a bad reaction getting even worse, an emergency room visit may be in order. Your doctor can advise on the next best steps for finding relief.

The Attack is Prolonged

If your migraine is lasting for days on end and none of your usual remedies are working to end it, then an emergency room visit would be a good next step to take. Or, if you know it is not life-threatening and you are not in fear of brain damage or head trauma, then consider going to an urgent care clinic. Either way, you can speak with a doctor about methods for ending the pain and getting back to your normal routine.

In 2016, nearly 27% of people reported visiting an urgent care center at least once in the previous two years. If you are among the group that has utilized these services in the past or if you are concerned you will need them in the future, consider turning to the team here at Legacy. We are ready to handle any and all of your ER & urgent care needs.