Understanding ER Visits During Flu Season
It’s flu season, and ER visits in Montreal are already surging. Many people rush to hospitals at the first sign of illness, but not everyone needs emergency care. According to Dr. Mitch Shulman, an emergency medicine specialist at the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), unnecessary visits can actually do more harm than good.
“When you’re otherwise healthy and have a cold, staying home is often best,” he explains. “ERs are full of people with serious issues, and being there can expose you to worse infections.”
When You Should Stay Home
For most healthy adults, mild flu or cold symptoms don’t require a hospital visit. If you have a sore throat, cough, mild fever, runny nose, or nausea, rest and fluids will usually do the trick.
Dr. Shulman reminds people that common viral illnesses often resolve on their own. “A cold lasts five to seven days if I treat it, and five to seven days if I don’t,” he says with a laugh.
You should stay home if you have:
Sore or scratchy throat but can still swallow
Blocked or runny nose
Mild cough
Nausea or vomiting without dehydration
Diarrhea but can keep fluids down
Fever that lowers with medication
Instead of rushing to the ER, use rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medicine to manage your symptoms.
When It’s Time to Go to the ER
However, there are moments when a hospital visit is essential. If you’re elderly, immunocompromised, or living with chronic conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, or heart problems, a simple cold can quickly turn dangerous.
Dr. Shulman stresses: “If symptoms last beyond seven days or worsen suddenly—like chest pain, shortness of breath, or a high spiking fever—it’s time to see a doctor.”
You should head to the ER if you experience:
Chest pain, especially crushing or radiating pain
Sudden, severe headache
Shortness of breath or fainting
Fever that won’t go down after four or five days
Blood in vomit or stool
Severe abdominal pain or suspected broken bones
Sudden numbness, paralysis, or confusion (possible stroke symptoms)
For stroke or heart attack warning signs, every second counts. Immediate treatment can save lives and reduce long-term complications.
Special Considerations for Children
When it comes to kids, parents should always err on the side of caution. “A fever in a baby under one year old always needs medical evaluation,” says Shulman.
He emphasizes that persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or an inability to drink fluids should never be ignored. “If you’re unsure, go to the emergency room. We’d rather see a healthy child than miss a serious case.”
Depending on the time of day, many family doctors or pediatricians offer last-minute appointments, so it’s worth calling your clinic first before heading to the hospital.
Alternatives to the ER
For mild symptoms, pharmacists can provide advice and treatment for common conditions like sore throats, coughs, or minor infections. You can also book same-day appointments through Clic Santé or call Info-Santé 811 for guidance.
“Know what’s available in your area,” Dr. Shulman advises. “If your local clinic is open late or on weekends, that can save you a long ER wait.”
Staying Smart and Safe
Ultimately, knowing when to go to the hospital helps both you and the healthcare system. Avoiding unnecessary ER visits allows doctors to focus on patients who truly need emergency care, while keeping you safe from exposure to other illnesses.
So, before heading out, ask yourself: Can this wait? Can I manage this at home? If the answer is yes, rest, stay hydrated, and give your body time to recover.
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