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Emergency Medicine

Expert answers from Emergency Medicine physicians on health concerns and treatment options

Questions & Answers

66 articles

Q

What is necrotizing fasciitis caused by flesh-eating bacteria?

Necrotizing fasciitis is a serious infection where bacteria destroy skin and tissue, often caused by Vibrio vulnificus. It spreads quickly and needs urgent medical care.

Q

What is the survival rate for flesh-eating bacteria infection?

The survival rate for necrotizing fasciitis, or flesh-eating bacteria infection, can vary, but it is generally serious with significant risk of death.

Q

What is Vibrio vulnificus bacteria?

Vibrio vulnificus is a type of bacteria found in warm seawater that can cause severe illness in humans, especially if it enters through cuts or is ingested with contaminated seafood.

Q

What should I do if I think I have flesh-eating bacteria?

If you think you have flesh-eating bacteria, it is important to seek medical help immediately, as it can be very serious.

Q

Where is flesh-eating bacteria found in water?

Flesh-eating bacteria, which can cause severe infections, are often found in water environments, particularly in warm coastal waters.

Q

Who is most at risk for severe flesh-eating bacteria infection?

People most at risk for severe flesh-eating bacteria infections are those with weakened immune systems or existing health problems.

Q

How can I identify if I'm throwing up blood?

If you're throwing up blood, it might look like coffee grounds or be bright red. It's important to see a doctor if this happens.

Q

How much vomiting should prompt a visit to the hospital?

If someone vomits after a head injury, especially more than once, they should go to the hospital to check for serious problems.

Q

What should I do if I notice I'm throwing up blood?

If you are throwing up blood, it is important to seek medical help right away, as it can be a sign of a serious condition.

Q

Is it safe to fall asleep after sustaining a concussion?

A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury and it can range from mild to severe. If you or someone you know may have a concussion, it is important to seek medical care -- and it is especially important to seek medical care immediately if there are any signs of a severe concussion such as vomiting, seizure, inability to wake up, and trouble speaking or moving any limbs. After a healthcare provider determines it is safe to recover from a concussion at home (not in the hospital), getting enough sleep is part of how someone recovers from a concussion.

Q

Does facial numbness on the right side require immediate medical attention?

Facial numbness on one side can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should be evaluated promptly, especially if it happens suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Q

Is face tingling a symptom of heat exhaustion?

Yes, tingling in the face can be a symptom of heat exhaustion. It’s usually caused by changes in circulation or electrolyte imbalances from overheating.

Q

What should I do if I experience tingling on one side of my face?

If you notice tingling on one side of your face, especially if it starts suddenly or is accompanied by other symptoms, you should seek medical attention to rule out serious causes.

Q

What should I do if I experience tingling on the left side of my face?

If you experience tingling on the left side of your face, monitor your symptoms closely. Seek immediate medical care if it comes on suddenly, worsens, or is accompanied by other concerning signs like weakness or trouble speaking.

Q

What are some effective methods for relieving ankle pain?

Ankle pain can be relieved with topical patches like diclofenac, rest, and medications used in emergency settings.

Q

What should I do if I experience left chest pain?

If you experience left chest pain, pay close attention to your symptoms and seek immediate medical help if the pain is severe or accompanied by other concerning signs.

Q

What should I do if my chest hurts when I breathe?

If your chest hurts when you breathe, it’s important to get evaluated by a doctor—especially if the pain is severe, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms.

Q

What should you do when your chest hurts?

If your chest hurts, first check how you feel overall and whether there are any other serious symptoms, such as rapid onset fatigue, lightheadedness or nausea, and then get help from a doctor or emergency services if needed.

Q

What are the immediate steps to take if I have a broken ankle?

If you have a broken ankle, keep weight off the ankle, apply ice, elevate it, and seek medical attention promptly.

Q

How can you differentiate between heat stroke and heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion is less severe and usually comes with heavy sweating and weakness, while heat stroke is more serious with high body temperature, confusion, and sometimes little or no sweating.

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