Question: When do HIV Symptoms Require a Trip to the Emergency Room?
When HIV symptoms strike they can be serious. AIDS symptoms can range from mild to severe. When do HIV symptoms and AIDS symptoms require a trip to the emergency room?
Answer:
Everyone gets sick now and again. Some illnesses can be taken care of with over the counter medications and a little rest. Others require a visit to the doctor or prescription meds. But what about those illnesses that can't wait for an appointment with the doctor. Some illnesses require immediate attention; a trip to the emergency room. When is it time to go to the emergency room? These simple tips will help you make the right decisions when you're feeling the effects of your HIV symptoms.
Everyone gets sick now and again. Some illnesses can be taken care of with over the counter medications and a little rest. Others require a visit to the doctor or prescription meds. But what about those illnesses that can't wait for an appointment with the doctor. Some illnesses require immediate attention; a trip to the emergency room. When is it time to go to the emergency room? These simple tips will help you make the right decisions when you're feeling the effects of your HIV symptoms.
Symptoms that Require a Trip to the ER
To the ER by Ambulance- Chest pain
- Pain in the left arm, neck and jaw
- Shortness of breath
- Sudden onset headache that can be described as "the worst headache of your life"
- Weakness on one side of your body. Weakness in one arm or leg or on one side of your face.
- Slurred speech
- Bleeding from a cut that will not stop with applied pressure.
- Vomiting blood or bright red blood in your bowel movements.
Symptoms that Require a Doctor's Evaluation Within One Day
These symptoms require a call to your doctor. If no appointments are available within one day, a trip to the ER is in order.
- Fever of greater than 100.5
- Abdominal pain with vomiting and diarrhea with or without fever.
- Skin rash, especially after starting a new medication.
- Gradual onset headache with or without neck stiffness and fever.
- Cough producing mucous that is clear or colored with or without fever.
Symptoms that Require a Trip to Your Doctor
These symptoms warrant a call to your doctor.
- Body aches, joint pain, or muscle pain
- Flu-like symptoms that persist or get worse over 2 to 3 days.
- Any known medication side effect (e.g. nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, mild rash, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes)
- Any other signs or symptoms that are not typical for you.
Important Warning!
Keep in mind that these are only guidelines. When in doubt never hesitate to call your doctor, go to the emergency department or call an ambulance. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
