5 Types of Pain Emergency Doctors Say Should Not Be Ignored

Emergency medicine doctors frequently encounter severe medical situations, acting as the frontline for individuals experiencing serious health issues. However, defining what constitutes a medical emergency can be complex, as pain can vary significantly from person to person. According to Dr. Michael Turturro, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, pain should not be disregarded, and seeking medical attention is advised for any concerns. He emphasizes that it is preferable to be reassured that nothing is seriously wrong than to delay care.

While all pain merits attention, certain types are consistently flagged by medical experts as particularly alarming and indicative of a need for medical evaluation.

Sudden, Persistent Pain

Turturro advises that pain which is sudden, severe, and does not subside should be taken seriously, regardless of its location on the body. A medical professional is needed to determine the cause, but new and concerning pain should prompt a visit to the doctor. "We'd rather people err on the side of caution," Turturro stated, encouraging prompt evaluation if an individual feels something is not right.

Chest Pain

Chest pain is a widely recognized symptom associated with heart attacks, making it crucial to address promptly. Dr. Mark Conroy, an emergency medicine physician at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, notes that sudden-onset chest pain, especially if it's a new sensation or occurs in individuals with known heart conditions, requires timely medical attention. Turturro adds that chest pain can be more concerning in older adults and those with risk factors for heart disease, such as hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Beyond cardiac events, sharp chest pain could signal other serious conditions like a pulmonary embolism or aortic dissection. However, chest pain can also stem from less severe causes, such as heartburn, underscoring the need for professional diagnosis.

Calf Pain with Redness or Swelling

Conroy points out that lower leg pain, particularly in the calf, becomes concerning when accompanied by swelling or redness. This combination can indicate a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot. He advises prompt medical evaluation for such symptoms, especially in individuals who have recently undergone surgery, have been immobile for extended periods, or have taken long flights.

Tearing Sensation in Upper Back Pain

Back pain is common, but a tearing sensation in the upper back or chest area is a specific warning sign. Conroy explains that this type of pain can indicate a problem with the aorta, the body's largest artery, and requires immediate medical attention.

Certain Lower Abdominal Pains

Conroy describes abdominal pain as a source of concern for emergency physicians due to the wide array of potential causes. Pain in the flank area, the lower back or abdomen, could suggest kidney stones or a kidney infection, especially if accompanied by fever. Appendicitis is another possibility if flank pain occurs with nausea and vomiting. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended for lower abdominal pain exhibiting these associated symptoms.

Ultimately, any pain that causes worry is a valid reason to consult a doctor. While visiting an emergency department can seem daunting, ignoring pain is never advisable. Seeking medical evaluation, even if it leads to reassurance, is the most prudent course of action for safeguarding one's health. For non-emergent but urgent needs, options like urgent care centers or primary care provider appointments may offer more affordable alternatives to emergency room visits. However, if there is any doubt about the severity of a condition, seeking emergency care is the safest choice.