WHAT TO DO IN THESE COMMON MEDICAL EMERGENCIES
Health and medical emergencies happen all the time, especially when you least expect them to occur. That is why a medical emergency requires prompt decisions and immediate action. If you fail to take appropriate steps on time, it could unfortunately, lead to the death of a loved one. Knowing a few key facts on common emergencies and ways to address can be life saving. Here are the 5 common health and medical emergencies that you need to know in order to take correct action on time:
Fainting
There can be several causes for fainting, such as excessive heat, anxiety, low blood sugar, a heart condition, or diabetes. No matter what the cause is, if you are with someone who feels dizzy, make them lie down or sit somewhere. Make sure to check their breathing and pulse rate. If they are still breathing, you can restore the blood flow to their brain by raising them above the level of their heart almost 12 inches. In case you cannot detect their pulse or breathing, call 911 immediately then if a defibrillator (AED)is available, use it. Otherwise, start CPR.
Seizure
Due to abnormal or unusual electrical activity in the brain, seizures take place. Different types of seizures can affect people in a variety of ways. Some common symptoms include blackouts, flashing lights, blurry vision, increased pulse rate, and difficulty in breathing. While epilepsy is a major cause of seizures, they can also happen to people with no health conditions. In the event of a seizure, place a soft jacket under the person’s head. Turn the person on their side so that if they vomit it doesn’t collect in the back of their mouth causing it to go down the lungs. And do not try to put anything into their mouth like a spoon.
Broken bones
It does not matter how old you are, anyone can experience broken bones due to an injury. Broken bones are likely to require emergency medical care. Do not move the person with a broken bone, unless it is really necessary. In case of bleeding, you can apply pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or bandage. Similarly, use ice packs wrapped in a towel to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
Burns
There are three categories of burns. Those suffering from first-degree burns will experience redness or swelling. In case of second-degree burns – the second layer of the skin is burned – swelling is accompanied with painful blisters. The most serious of all, third-degree burns occur when the entire outer layer of the skin has been burnt. . In case someone faces a first or second-degree burn, run cold water over them to provide relief. You can also use an antibiotic ointment for such burns. Make sure to cover the burn with a bandage. Do not apply petroleum jelly or any other home remedy to the burn.
Back pain
Excruciating back pain can take place due to lifting excessive weight or using improper technique to lift an object. At the same time, back pain can also cause unexplained weight loss or uncontrollable fever. Sometimes, back pain can signify serious health issues such as kidney stones, aortic aneurysm or herniated disc bulging against the spinal cord. This is why back pain calls for emergency care service as it has the potential to become life threatening. Anyone can face these emergencies at anytime. It is therefore better to be prepared.. At the time of a medical emergency, remember to stay calm and keep a few essential first aid tools with you, at home or at work. However, if the problem aggravates, visit the nearest emergency room. Looking for an emergency room in Victoria, Texas? Visit Victoria ER. As one of the leading emergency care providers in Texas, we provide professional emergency care services for adults and children. Click here to find out more.
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