Excessive sweating may be caused by a variety of factors, including hot flashes, exercise, stress, excess weight or even spicy food. Heavy sweating may also be a sign of thyroid problems, diabetes or heart issues.
If you are sweating more than usual, you don’t need to call 911, but you should consult a physician to rule out a serious underlying medical condition.
6. Numbness
Numbness in the face, arms or legs can be a very serious signal, especially if the feeling is on one side of the body, as this could indicate a stroke. This symptom may be accompanied by sudden confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, as well as blurred vision.
Numbness is also associated with several other illnesses, including Lyme disease, Guillain-Barre syndrome and diabetes, and a herniated disk. No matter what the cause, numbness should always be investigated, and if it is accompanied by other symptoms of a stroke, call an ambulance immediately.
7. Swelling
Swelling is usually due to inflammation or a buildup of fluid and may result from a range of conditions. The most common reason for swollen feet or ankles is poor circulation. In older people, it could mean their blood vessels are weakening. It could also be an indication of a blood clot blocking the veins.
One of the more serious conditions associated with swelling is edema, which happens when an abnormal amount of fluid builds up in the body. Edema can damage the heart, make you feel weak when walking and cause swollen ankles.
Always investigate the cause of any type of swelling. And if you experience swollen ankles, make an appointment with your doctor right away.
Immediate Medical Care
When serious health symptoms occur, an ambulance is the quickest way to receive immediate attention. Emergency medical technicians can provide immediate care at the scene and in the ambulance. If you drive yourself or someone else to the hospital, there will be an emergency room wait and precious time may be lost.