Many people are worried about visiting the hospital and taking up doctor’s time. We will explain the symptoms that should still be checked by a doctor.
Do not delay if you are worried about the virus or hospitals being too busy. There are still systems available to treat stroke victims and patients who require urgent treatment for heart disease or stroke. There are strict protocols in place in hospitals to make sure patients are not exposed to those with confirmed or suspected coronavirus. This makes it less likely that you will contract the virus. Many GPs offer online and phone consultations, so you don’t have to travel to see them.
You should immediately dial 999 if you feel you have a medical emergency such as a heart attack or stroke. You are more likely than not to sustain serious injuries and will need more intensive care.
These are signs that you should seek emergency assistance:
Sudden discomfort or pain in your chest that doesn’t go away
You feel pain that radiates to your stomach, right or left arm or neck, jaw, back, or stomach
Feeling suddenly sick, lightheaded or sweaty
Swelling of the feet, ankles and lower legs
In a very short time, weight gain
Breathing difficulties
If you have already been diagnosed with heart failure
Facial weakness
Speech problems
Signs of stroke
Sudden memory loss, confusion, dizziness, or a sudden drop
Sudden severe headache
Sudden sight problems
Numbness or weakness on one side
Blackouts or a feeling of being unable to concentrate
Heart palpitations
Sudden discomfort or pain in your chest that doesn’t go away
Call 999 immediately if you feel sudden pain or discomfort in the chest. You should seek immediate medical attention if you feel this is a sign of a heart attack.
It is important to recognize that discomfort can come in many forms. You may feel pressure, tightness, or squeezing in your centre.
You feel pain that radiates to your stomach, right or left arm or neck, jaw, back, or stomach
This could be another sign of a heart attack. It is crucial that you immediately call 999 to get medical attention. Some people feel severe pain, others are uncomfortable.
Covid’s legacy
Cancellations Missed appointments. Lost lives. The devastating effects of Covid-19 on cardiovascular care have been felt.
New analysis shows that waiting lists for life-saving heart treatment and diagnosis could double in two years due to the pandemic.
The government must now act to provide the NHS with the necessary care and to build a healthier and more resilient system of health.
Feeling suddenly sick, lightheaded or sweaty
These symptoms can also be symptoms of less serious conditions like food poisoning and panic attacks. They can often go away quickly. They can also be signs of a heart attack. You should immediately dial 999 if you feel a sudden sensation of nausea, lightheadedness, or sweatiness.
Swelling of the feet, ankles and lower legs
Heart failure can cause swelling to increase below the knees. Fluid retention is a sign that your heart isn’t able to pump blood efficiently.
A sign of heart disease is swelling that is greater than your knees.
You should consult your GP if you feel any swelling. They can then assess you and test you as necessary. Most of these tests can easily be performed at your GP’s office, so you won’t need to go to hospital. You should see your GP immediately. Delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms.
In a very short time, weight gain
It is vital to regularly weigh yourself if you have been diagnosed as having heart failure. A sudden weight gain could indicate that fluid is building up and that your condition may be worsening.
Many people gain weight even though they are in ‘lockdown’. It is worth noting any weight gain. You should contact your doctor if you notice a sudden weight increase of more than 2 or 3 pounds in 24 hours or more than 5 pounds in a single week.
Breathing difficulties
Shortness of breath can occur for many reasons, but it could also be a sign that you have heart disease. It can happen while you are active, such as walking up stairs or sitting down.
Shortness of breath can occur for many reasons, but it could also be a sign that you have heart disease.
To discuss your symptoms, your GP should be consulted if you feel short of breath or have difficulty doing your daily activities.
If you feel like you’re having trouble breathing, or if you have a cough that is a mix of saliva and mucus, you should call 999 immediately. This could be an indication you may have pulmonary oedema.
If you have already been diagnosed with heart failure
You or someone you care for has heart failure and urgent assistance is required. Call 999 immediately
The person has difficulty breathing.
Or it collapses
Or is in distress
or faints, or blacks out
or feels sudden discomfort or chest pain that doesn’t subside.
Tell your loved ones and friends that you have suffered from heart failure.
Facial weakness
Do you smile? Is your eye or mouth dilated? A stroke can cause facial weakness. It is important to call 999 immediately to get immediate medical attention.
Visit Intclinics to find hospitals in your area.
Speech problem
Are you unable to speak clearly or able to find words and sentences easily? These signs could indicate that you may be suffering from a stroke. Call 999 immediately to get help.
Signs of stroke
To recognize the signs, F.A.S.T.
Facial weakness – Can they smile? Is their eye or mouth droopy?
Can they raise their arms despite arm weakness?
Speech problems: Can they communicate clearly?
Time – If you have any of these symptoms, it is time to dial 999 immediately.
Sudden memory loss, confusion, dizziness, or a sudden drop
If you or someone you care for has sudden memory loss, confusion, or other symptoms, you should seek immediate medical attention. These symptoms may be due to other conditions. If they aren’t sudden, they don’t necessarily need to be treated immediately.
However, if memory loss or confusion is sudden and unexpected, it could indicate a stroke. Call 999 immediately to get medical attention.
Sudden severe headache
Although severe headaches can occur from many causes, if they happen quickly or suddenly it could indicate a stroke. Sometimes, a stroke headache may also cause loss of vision or feeling. For medical assistance, dial 999.
Sudden sight problems
Sight problems could refer to blurred vision or loss of sight in one eye. A stroke can signify sudden sight problems. Don’t delay – call 999 immediately.
Numbness or weakness on one side
Call 999 immediately if you feel a sudden weakness in one side of your body or numbness elsewhere. This could be a stroke. You can feel sudden weakness or numbness anywhere on the body, even in your legs or hands.
Blackouts or a feeling of being unable to concentrate
About 40% of people will faint at some point in their lives. However, it is not usually dangerous. If you’re concerned about fainting or blackout episodes, you should consult your GP. You can have any medical issues, such as an abnormal heart rhythm, diagnosed or ruled out by them.
To avoid having to go to hospital, it may be possible to have a heart rhythm monitor sent to your home. It is worn for at most 24 hours, but can last up to a week. The monitor tracks your heart rhythm and can be worn for up to one week. This will help your doctor diagnose any problems with your heart.
Heart palpitations
The sensation of your heart beating is called palpitations. Palpitations can feel like your heart beats irregularly, pounding, or fluttering. They can occur while you are active or at rest.
The majority of palpitations are harmless and common. You don’t have to see your GP if you feel the palpitations disappear quickly or occur only occasionally.
If any of these apply, make an appointment with your doctor.
Your palpitations can last for a while, and don’t get better or worsen over time.
Your palpitations can cause sudden dizziness.
You have a history with heart problems
You are concerned about palpitations.
If you feel faint, dizziness or chest pain, dial 999.
These are not all the symptoms that indicate you need immediate care. No matter what the symptoms may be, you should seek medical attention if they are not manageable.