Recognizing a medical emergency at home is one thing. Recognizing one in an unfamiliar country, possibly without speaking the language, is another. This guide covers the key signs that require immediate emergency response.
Cardiac events
The signs of a heart attack are the same in every country: chest pain or pressure, pain radiating to the arm, jaw, or back, shortness of breath, nausea, and cold sweats. Not all heart attacks present with dramatic chest-clutching. Women in particular may experience subtler symptoms including fatigue, nausea, and back pain.
If you suspect a cardiac event, call emergency services immediately. Time is critical. If the person becomes unconscious and is not breathing, begin CPR if you are trained.
Stroke
Remember FAST: Face drooping on one side, Arm weakness (ask them to raise both arms), Speech difficulty (slurred or confused), Time to call emergency services. Stroke treatment is extremely time-sensitive. The window for effective treatment can be as short as three hours.
Severe allergic reactions
Anaphylaxis can develop within minutes of exposure. Signs include swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, hives or widespread rash, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. If the person has an epinephrine auto-injector, help them use it. Call emergency services even if symptoms appear to improve after epinephrine, as reactions can recur.
Heat emergencies
Heat exhaustion presents with heavy sweating, weakness, nausea, and dizziness. Move the person to shade, provide water, and cool them with wet cloths. Heat stroke is more severe: the person stops sweating, skin becomes hot and dry, and confusion or unconsciousness occurs. Heat stroke is a medical emergency. Call for help immediately.
When in doubt, call
If you are unsure whether a situation is a medical emergency, call. Emergency operators are trained to assess severity over the phone. It is always better to call and discover it was not an emergency than to wait and discover it was.