When should you go to the emergency department?
The emergency department is for sudden or unexpected medical conditions that could cause a person to suffer significant harm or die without prompt attention by a licensed medical professional.
You should call 9-1-1 and seek emergency care for conditions such as:
- Chest pain (suspected heart attack or stroke)
- Amputation of limbs or deep wounds with severe bleeding
- Sudden confusion or difficulty speaking or breathing
- Sudden, severe headache
- Sudden weakness, dizziness or numbness
- Seizures
- Severe head injuries with loss of consciousness or new seizures
- Major burns involving the face or large areas of the body
- Vomiting blood
- Smoke or chemical inhalation
- Poisoning, overdoses and suicidal behavior
- Physical or sexual assault
- Mental health crisis
