The following is a list of symptoms which require a visit to the emergency room:
• Loss of consciousness.
• The following signs of a heart attack which last longer than two minutes: Pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest; tightness, burning or aching under the breastbone; chest pain with lightheadedness.
• The following signs of a stroke: sudden weakness or numbness of the face, arm or leg on one side of the body; loss of vision or dimness suddenly, especially if it’s in one eye; inability to talk, or trouble talking, or understanding someone else talking; a severe and sudden headache with no explainable cause; dizziness, unsteadiness, sudden falling which are unexplained, particularly if they occur with other symptoms of stroke.
• More than normal shortness of breath.
• Bleeding which continues even after the application of direct pressure for ten minutes.
• Sudden, instantaneous and severe pain.
• Poisoning- however it is important to note that if it is at all possible to contact a poison control center first, it is better to get immediate advice. There are some poisons that need to vomited-up immediately, and others which need to be diluted with water immediately. Quick action in this regard can save a life.
• If there is an allergic reaction to an insect bite, sting or medication, particularly if it becomes difficult to breath. The symptoms become worse over time.
• Traumatic and serious head injury.
• Disorientation, sleepiness, or stupor which is unexplained.
• Coughing or vomiting up blood.
• Sever vomiting which is unabated.
• Feelings of a suicidal or homicidal nature.
