Emergency Medicine

Chest pain may arise from the heart, lungs or other structures. Suspected heart attack needs immediate assessment, especially with sweating, breathlessness or pain spreading to the arm or jaw.

Stroke can cause sudden weakness, facial drooping, speech difficulty or vision loss. Symptoms that resolve may still indicate a TIA; both require emergency assessment without delay.

Severe breathlessness can signal a dangerous airway, lung or heart problem. Inability to speak normally, bluish lips or reduced awareness requires immediate emergency help.

Road traffic trauma can cause fractures, head injury or internal bleeding. Significant injury may not be visible externally, and symptoms can change after the accident.

Head injury ranges from concussion to bleeding inside the skull. Repeated vomiting, worsening headache, seizures or reduced consciousness requires urgent assessment.

Poisoning and overdose can affect breathing, heart rhythm, liver function or consciousness. Urgent advice is needed even without symptoms because effects may be delayed.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause throat swelling, breathing difficulty or collapse. It is an emergency and may occur without a skin rash.

Seizures may alter movement, sensation or awareness. A prolonged seizure or repeated seizures without recovery requires emergency treatment.

Snake venom can affect blood clotting, nerves or kidneys. A suspected snake bite needs prompt assessment even when early symptoms appear mild.

Fever with confusion, breathing difficulty, neck stiffness or signs of dehydration can indicate serious illness. Overall condition matters more than the temperature reading alone.

Obstetric emergencies include severe bleeding, eclampsia and sudden pregnancy complications. Rapid treatment protects both the pregnant patient and the baby.

Paediatric emergencies include serious breathing problems, seizures, dehydration and injuries. Children can deteriorate rapidly and need age-specific stabilisation.