Know When to Seek Emergency Care During Flu Season

As flu season intensifies, emergency departments in Montreal are bracing for an influx of patients, many of whom may not require hospital care. According to Dr. Mitch Shulman, an emergency medicine specialist at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), healthy individuals with mild colds can risk worsening their condition by visiting crowded emergency rooms.

Dr. Shulman emphasizes that common colds typically resolve whether treated or not. “A cold will last five to seven days if I treat it; a cold will last five to seven days if I don’t treat it,” he quipped, highlighting the importance of assessing symptoms before deciding to seek medical help.

When to Stay Home

Individuals who are otherwise healthy should avoid the ER for mild symptoms. Dr. Shulman advises against visiting for conditions such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea if one is able to stay hydrated. Additionally, he suggests that those with a sore throat or mild cold symptoms, like a runny nose or cough, should remain at home.

Dr. Shulman notes, “If you have a sore throat and you’re able to swallow, don’t visit me in the emergency room.” This guidance aims to reduce the risk of exposure to more severe illnesses that can circulate in high-traffic medical settings.

Identifying True Emergencies

There are specific circumstances under which patients should seek immediate medical attention. These include elderly individuals or those with compromised immune systems, such as patients with cancer, diabetes, or chronic heart and kidney diseases. Dr. Shulman states, “The only time we would be concerned about someone who has symptoms of a ‘cold’ is if they have a compromised immune system or if it’s more than five to seven days and it’s still there.”

Immediate care is essential if a patient experiences sudden chest pain, shortness of breath, or a high fever that persists beyond four or five days. Symptoms like these could indicate complications such as pneumonia or even heart attacks. Dr. Shulman warns, “If you have sudden onset, crushing chest pain in the middle of your chest, can’t catch your breath and feel like you’re going to pass out, this could be a heart attack.”

Additionally, anyone showing signs of a stroke, including confusion, difficulty speaking, or sudden numbness, should seek emergency help without delay. “The faster you get to an emergency room, the better the chances are that we can reverse the effects of the stroke,” he adds.

For children, the guidelines shift slightly. Parents should consult a healthcare professional if a child under one year has a fever. “If in doubt, especially with a child under the age of one, do not hesitate to go to the emergency room,” Dr. Shulman advises. Symptoms such as the inability to keep liquids down or severe vomiting are also red flags for pediatric patients.

Alternative Care Options

Dr. Shulman also highlights alternatives to emergency rooms for common health issues. Pharmacists can provide effective care for minor ailments, and patients can book appointments at nearby clinics via platforms like Clic Santé or call Info-Santé 811 for guidance.

He encourages individuals to familiarize themselves with local health resources. “Is your local health clinic open Friday night, Saturday, Sunday? Are they able to do X-rays?” he asks, suggesting that knowing available options can help alleviate pressure on emergency departments during peak times.

In conclusion, understanding when to seek emergency care can ease the burden on healthcare systems and improve outcomes for those who truly need immediate attention. As flu season progresses, it is vital for individuals to assess their symptoms carefully and utilize available resources effectively.