Staff in the emergency department never know what types of injuries will come through the door. One minute a 10-year-old can be walking in with a broken arm and the next, a grandfather with chest pains. But despite the gamut of in injuries and conditions, everyone has one thing in common: no one wants to be there. But according to Brian Kern, MD, an emergency medicine physician with Adventist Hinsdale Hospital, it’s far worse to avoid going when there is a potential need.

If you’re like most people, you may question if an injury or illness warrants a visit to the ER. Dr. Kern offers this advice.

Listen to your body
Because an emergency can include many things, listening to your body is often the best indication of when to go to the ER. “If you aren’t sure whether you have an emergency, don’t think twice about using our services,” says Dr. Kern. There are certain signs to watch out for, including:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Difficulty breathing
• Unusual abdominal pain
• Fainting, dizziness or weakness
• Sudden changes in mental status, such as confusion
• Visual disturbances
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Fever
• Severe pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding

The ER is often the best place to receive care for these potentially critical symptoms because it offers a greater range of services and interventions that aren’t available in urgent care or your doctor’s office.

X-ray services and stroke and heart attack interventions are readily available in the ER. At Adventist Midwest Health, patients also have access to a wide range of specialists, including board-certified emergency physicians, obstetricians, pediatricians and neurosurgeons.

The most time-sensitive emergencies
Some emergencies are more urgent than others. Especially with stroke and heart attack symptoms, waiting too long can literally mean the difference between life and death. “If you are having stroke or heart attack symptoms, come in sooner rather than later,” Dr. Kern says. “If you suspect either of these conditions, call 9-1-1 right away.”

Learn more about heart attacks and stroke by reading, “Move to the Beat of a Healthier Drum” and “Time Lost is Brain Lost.”

How to prevent ER visits
Although some injuries, like spraining your ankle during a soccer game or falling off of a bike, can’t be prevented, Dr. Kern says following these simple measures can help keep families out of the emergency department:

• Schedule annual physicals with your primary care physician
• Have your blood pressure and cholesterol checked regularly
• Know your family health history, including heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes
• Wear proper safety equipment during work or play
• Always wear your seat belt

If an ER visit is necessary, make sure you bring your medications. “This prevents us from giving patients drugs than can interact with current medications and gives us insight into their medical history,” Dr. Kern says.

A different kind of ER
ER patients at Adventist Midwest Health are often seen within 30 minutes of arriving. “When someone is sick or injured, the last thing they want is to wait for treatment,” Dr. Kern says. “Fast and efficient care makes all the difference.”

For more information, or to find a physician, call us at 866-533-7968.