When Should I Go to the Emergency Room?

Medical experts explain when to go to the emergency room — and when to call a doctor instead.

It’s not always easy to tell how serious an illness or injury might be. And when people aren’t sure, it’s tempting to ignore the problem and try to “push through” — but this can have serious consequences.

So how can you tell when it’s time to go to the emergency room? The experts of Keck Medicine of USC have shared the following guidelines for you to keep on hand.

Life-threatening emergencies

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room if you experience:

• Chest pain
• Shortness of breath
• Numbness or weakness on one side of your face or body

Women can experience heart attacks differently from men, so they should also pay attention to:

• Pain in the left shoulder, back or jaw
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Shortness of breath

Another serious symptom is abdominal pain. It may not be a sign of a cardiac event, but it could indicate a dangerous illness like appendicitis.

Serious injuries

The following require immediate medical attention in order to heal properly and avoid complications:

• Large lacerations (cuts) that need stitches
• Excessive bleeding
• Broken bones
• Dislocations

Maternal and neonatal health

Pregnancy and the neonatal period are extremely vulnerable times. Get to an emergency room if you notice:

• Cramping or bleeding during pregnancy
• Fever in infants less than 30 days old

When to call a doctor instead

ER staff is there to serve every patient, but if you go for a minor illness or injury, it will mean a longer wait for everyone — including those with life-threatening conditions.

Call your doctor or head to an urgent care clinic if you have:

• Cold or flu symptoms
• Pain or burning with urination
• Signs of a sprain
• Earaches
• Minor allergic reactions

If you’re not sure, call your doctor. Even after hours, most offices will have a triage nurse on-call to assess your symptoms and determine the best course of action.

If you have a fear or dread of hospitals, the staff will understand and do everything they can to help.

Emergency room clinicians are trained to address your entire experience — not just your medical needs but your emotional needs as well. They should listen well, make you feel safe and encourage your loved ones to come sit with you whenever possible.

If you have life-threatening symptoms or a serious wound or injury, don’t wait. The earlier you come, the easier it will be to treat your condition.

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