In a medical emergency, knowing when to head straight to the ER can make all the difference. At First Priority ER, we provide 24/7 emergency care, including onsite radiology, so patients can get fast answers and immediate treatment when every second counts.
This guide will walk you through the key symptoms that should never be ignored, explain how urgent care differs from emergency care, and highlight why onsite radiology is so critical in emergency medicine.
Symptoms That Require Immediate Emergency Care
Chest Pain
Chest pain should always be treated as a potential emergency. It can signal a heart attack or another serious heart condition. Warning signs include:
- A sharp, stabbing sensation or a heavy pressure in the chest
- Pain that radiates to the arms, back, or jaw
- Sweating, nausea, or dizziness
Immediate evaluation in the ER is vital. With advanced imaging and testing available onsite, our team can quickly determine the cause and start treatment without delay.
Severe Abdominal Pain
Sudden, intense abdominal pain can point to conditions like appendicitis, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, or intestinal blockage. These conditions can escalate quickly if left untreated.
Symptoms may include:
- Vomiting
- Fever
- Bloating or changes in bowel habits
At First Priority ER, we use onsite ultrasounds and CT scans to quickly identify the source of abdominal pain so treatment can begin right away.
Shortness of Breath
Difficulty breathing may be linked to asthma, pneumonia, blood clots in the lungs (pulmonary embolism), or even heart failure.
If you experience sudden or worsening shortness of breath, seek emergency care immediately. Our team has the expertise and imaging technology to identify the cause and provide fast relief.
Head Trauma or Severe Headache
Head injuries should never be taken lightly. Signs such as confusion, dizziness, loss of consciousness, or persistent headache can indicate a concussion or more serious brain injury.
Severe headaches that come on suddenly, especially when paired with vision changes or weakness, could point to conditions like a stroke or aneurysm. Onsite CT scans and other imaging help us evaluate head injuries quickly and accurately.
Major Burns or Deep Cuts
Burns and severe lacerations require professional care to prevent infection, manage blood loss, and reduce complications.
At First Priority ER, we not only treat the visible injury but also use imaging if needed to check for damage beneath the surface.
Urgent Care vs. Emergency Room: Knowing the Difference
What Urgent Care Handles
Urgent care centers are designed for minor, non-life-threatening conditions, like sprains, minor cuts, colds, and ear infections. They’re helpful for quick care but don’t have the advanced diagnostic tools or emergency-trained staff needed for serious conditions.
What the ER Handles
Emergency rooms are open 24/7 and fully equipped to treat life-threatening and severe conditions. From heart attacks to strokes, serious injuries to respiratory distress, the ER is the right place for comprehensive emergency care.
When in Doubt Choose the ER
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms, or you aren’t sure how serious your condition is, it’s safest to go straight to the ER. At First Priority ER, our doctors, nurses, and advanced imaging capabilities are ready around the clock to stabilize and treat emergencies immediately.
Why Onsite Radiology Matters
Faster Diagnosis
With imaging available onsite, patients don’t face delays waiting to be transferred elsewhere. This speed is critical in emergencies like internal bleeding, fractures, or strokes.
Comprehensive Care in One Place
Onsite radiology means doctors can evaluate all aspects of your condition without losing valuable time. Teams can review results immediately and begin the right treatment faster.
Advanced Technology
Our emergency rooms are equipped with CT scans, X-rays, and ultrasounds to give providers a detailed view inside the body. These tools help us detect conditions early and guide the most effective treatment plan.
Conclusion
Recognizing serious symptoms chest pain, severe abdominal pain, shortness of breath, head trauma, and major burns or cuts can save lives. In these situations, urgent care isn’t enough. The emergency room is the right place for fast, advanced, life-saving care.
At First Priority ER in New Braunfels and Cibolo, we’re open 24/7 with board-certified emergency physicians and onsite radiology to give you quick answers and expert treatment when it matters most.
When in doubt, trust your instincts and visit First Priority ER. It’s better to be safe and evaluated right away than to risk waiting.
FAQs
When should I go to the ER instead of urgent care?
Go to the ER for severe chest pain, sudden shortness of breath, serious injuries, or symptoms that come on suddenly and worsen quickly.
What makes First Priority ER different?
We’re open 24/7 with board-certified doctors, advanced imaging onsite, and shorter wait times than most hospital ERs.
Can I come to First Priority ER anytime?
Yes our emergency rooms are always open, day or night, ready to care for you and your family.
