Top Reasons Why Men Visit the ER
Throughout June, we recognize Men’s Health Month. This observance raises awareness of the importance of men’s healthcare, urging men of all ages to become more proactive in matters regarding their health.
Every year, there are more than 131 million ER visits in the United States, of which 43% are male patients. While the reasons for visiting the ER vary, these are the top reasons men visit the ER.
So what are the top reasons why men visit the ER?
Respiratory Infections
The number one reason men visit the ER is due to upper respiratory infections.
Most respiratory infections result from viral infections from the cold and flu virus, but some bacteria can also cause infections.
Typically upper respiratory infections don’t require emergency care except when complications arise, and the condition worsens.
Symptoms of a respiratory infection include:
- Sneezing
- Nasal Congestion
- Sore Throat
- Headache
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Pressure in and around the sinuses
Warning Signs to Go to the ER
You should seek medical attention if your symptoms don’t improve or are getting worse. Please seek emergency care if you develop any of the following:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Persistent high fever
- Blood in your sputum
Chest Pains
Chest pains are another common reason many men seek emergency medical care.
Most people associate chest pains with cardiac arrest or heart attack, but chest pains can also indicate other health problems, including digestive issues and respiratory infections. This is why the second of our top reasons why men visit the ER is chest pains.
Warning Signs to Go to the ER
Deciding to visit the ER when you experience chest pains can save your life. Please call 911 if you have chest pain with any of the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Dizziness
- Weakness
- Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
- Angina (tightness, squeezing, or crushing sensation in your chest)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Changes in blood pressure
- Pain that radiates to the arms, jaw, neck, or back
- Sweating
Abdominal Pain
We’ve all experienced abdominal pain at some point in our lives. In most cases, the condition resolves itself without needing medical care.
However, it’s important to remember that abdominal pain is abnormal and could indicate a severe condition. Our third top reason why men visit the ER is abdominal pains.
Warning Signs to Go to the ER
You should consult your doctor if your abdominal pain is so severe that any movement causes more pain or if it prevents you from sitting comfortably.
Please visit the nearest ER if any of the following accompanies your abdominal pain:
- Bloody stools
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Abdomen that is very tender to the touch
- Swollen abdomen
- Yellowish skin
Sprains, Strains, And Broken Bones
Injuries to muscles, ligaments, and bones are typically related to falls, being struck by objects, or twisting joints.
Mild sprains and strains don’t usually require medical attention, but severe injuries do. A broken bone always requires medical attention to ensure the bone heals correctly.
Warning Signs to Go to the ER
You should consult your doctor if your abdominal pain is so severe that any movement causes more pain or if it prevents you from sitting comfortably.
Please visit the nearest ER if any of the following accompanies your abdominal pain:
- Bloody stools
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fever
- Abdomen that is very tender to the touch
- Swollen abdomen
- Yellowish skin
Back Pain
Back pain is a common complaint in the United States. The pain can be dull and constant or sudden and sharp—most back pain results from accidents such as falls or lifting heavy weights. However, diseases like arthritis can cause degenerative changes in the spine, producing chronic pain.
Warning Signs to Go to the ER
Please seek emergency care if your back pain does not improve after a few days or if any of the following accompanies it:
- Severe pain that does not improve with the use of over-the-counter medications
- Numbness or tingling
- Weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs
- Severe back pain after a fall or accident
- Trouble urinating
- Fever
- Unintended weight loss
As we celebrate Men’s Health Month, we urge the male population to schedule regular screenings with their primary care physician. Early illness detection significantly improves clinical outcomes and can help save lives.
At RapidCare ER, we will always advocate for disease prevention to help our communities stay healthy. However, we know that sudden illnesses and accidents can happen at any time, so our facilities are open 24/7 every day of the year.