11/18/2024
Knowing when to visit urgent care versus the emergency room can save you time, money, and stress. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Visit Urgent Care for:
Minor illnesses (colds, sore throat, flu)
Small cuts, sprains, or mild fractures
Non-severe headaches or infections
Rashes, insect bites, or mild allergic reactions
Accidents, falls and moderate
Breathing difficulties like mild to moderate asthma
Eye irritation and redness
Fever, flu, severe sore throat and coughs
Urinary tract infections Vomiting, diarrhea or dehydration
Go to the Emergency Room if you have:
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Severe injuries, major fractures, or deep wounds
Sudden confusion, slurred speech, or weakness on one side
High fever with a severe headache or neck stiffness
Compound fracture (bone protrudes through skin)
Convulsions, seizures or loss of consciousness
Heart attack symptoms including chest pain lasting longer than two minutes
Heavy and uncontrollable bleeding, deep knife wounds and gunshot wounds
Serious head, neck or back injury
Stroke symptoms like sudden numbness, weakness or slurred speech
Suicidal or homicidal feelings
Rapid Care is here for minor, non-life-threatening issues. If you’re uncertain, feel free to call us—we’re here to guide you to the best care for your situation.