Emergency room physicians routinely encounter a wide spectrum of medical conditions, and they emphasize that pain, while variable, should generally be taken seriously. "Pain is not something that anybody should ignore," said Dr. Michael Turturro, a professor of emergency medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He advises that individuals should seek medical evaluation if they have any concerns, prioritizing caution over potentially delaying necessary care.
While all pain warrants attention, certain types are consistently flagged as alarming by medical professionals.
Sudden, Unrelenting Pain
Sudden and severe pain that persists is a key indicator that requires medical attention, according to Turturro. This applies to pain anywhere in the body. If a new pain is particularly troubling or unlike anything experienced before, seeking urgent medical evaluation is recommended.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a well-known symptom associated with heart attacks and other serious conditions. Dr. Mark Conroy, an emergency medicine physician at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, advises prompt evaluation for sudden-onset chest pain, especially for individuals with a history of heart problems or risk factors like hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Beyond cardiac events, sharp chest pain can also indicate issues such as a pulmonary embolism or a tear in the aorta. However, chest pain can also stem from benign causes like heartburn, making professional diagnosis essential.
Calf Pain with Redness
Lower leg pain, particularly in the calf, accompanied by swelling or redness, can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a blood clot. Conroy advises prompt medical attention for such symptoms, especially in individuals who have recently undergone surgery or experienced prolonged immobility, such as on a long flight.
Upper Back Pain with Tearing Sensation
While back pain is common, a tearing sensation in the upper back or chest area could signal a problem with the aorta, the body's main artery. Conroy recommends immediate medical evaluation for this type of pain.
Specific Lower Abdominal Pains
Abdominal pain is a broad category that can indicate numerous issues. Conroy notes that pain in the flank area (lower back or lower abdomen) could be related to kidney stones or a kidney infection, particularly if accompanied by fever. If flank pain also presents with nausea and vomiting, it might suggest appendicitis. The presence of these symptoms alongside lower abdominal pain warrants prompt medical assessment.
When in Doubt, Seek Care
Experts stress that it is always better to err on the side of caution. If pain is concerning enough to trouble an individual, especially if it's a new type of pain, seeking medical attention is advisable. While the outcome may be reassurance that a serious condition is not present, professional evaluation is crucial for health and well-being. For non-emergent but urgent needs, alternatives to the emergency department include urgent care centers or primary care provider offices, which may offer more affordable options.