It can be difficult to discern when a medical condition rises to the level of a medical emergency. To help, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) offers a list of warning signs that indicate a medical emergency. These signs include:

• Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath
• Chest or upper abdominal pain or pressure
• Fainting, sudden dizziness, weakness
• Changes in vision
• Confusion or changes in mental status
• Any sudden or severe pain
• Uncontrolled bleeding
• Severe or persistent vomiting or diarrhea
• Coughing or vomiting blood
• Suicidal feelings
• Difficulty speaking
• Unusual abdominal pain

If you live on campus and you or someone you know is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, contact Public Safety at 202.885.3636 to coordinate transportation to the emergency room.

If you live off campus, have a friend drive you or call a cab or ambulance to the nearest emergency room.