Being able to recognize the signs of a medical emergency—and acting quickly—could help save someone’s life.

According to the American College of Emergency Physicians, signs and symptoms of a medical emergency include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure
• Fainting, weakness, or sudden dizziness
• Changes in vision
• Confusion or other changes in mental state
• Sudden or severe pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Coughing up or vomiting blood
• Difficulty speaking
• Suicidal thoughts

IF YOU DETECT ANY OF THESE SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS, GO TO THE HOSPITAL RIGHT AWAY. If you think the condition could be life-threatening or could get worse on the way to the hospital, call 911 immediately.

ketteringhealth.org/emergency