North Phoenix · care questions
When is it time for urgent help?
Call 911 now for severe allergic symptoms, or get help at the closest emergency room.
Severe allergy can develop quickly
MedlinePlus, the National Institutes of Health’s patient resource, describes anaphylaxis as a life-threatening allergic reaction. This reaction can begin in seconds or in minutes.
- Possible symptoms include swelling in the tongue or face, trouble swallowing or breathing, chest tightness, dizziness or unconsciousness.
- These are reasons to get emergency help, not a checklist for diagnosing yourself.
- Do not wait for a routine online reply when severe symptoms appear.
An infection can become an emergency
An extreme reaction by the body to infection is called sepsis. It is a medical emergency that threatens life, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
- Possible signs include confusion, severe pain, fever or shivering, clammy skin, a weak pulse and shortness of breath.
- These signs need prompt medical attention. They do not establish a diagnosis on their own.
- Explain any recent medicine use to the health professional assessing the symptoms.
Reporting comes after getting care
MedWatch is the Food and Drug Administration’s patient reporting programme for problems with medical products. Patients can submit a report themselves.
- A report does not replace an examination or urgent treatment.
- Keep the product name, pharmacy details and packaging for the report.
- A reported problem is not by itself proof that the medicine caused it.