An emergency medicine provider is often the first person you see when you arrive at the hospital during a medical emergency. But what does an emergency room doctor treat?
Doctors who work in the emergency department are trained to think fast, act quickly and treat a wide variety of health problems. Whether it’s a broken arm, chest pain or trouble breathing, emergency room doctors are ready to help.
If you’re dealing with any of the above or have an injury or symptom that requires being seen by an emergency department provider, find your nearest location or call 911.
What is an emergency room doctor?
An emergency room doctor, also called an emergency medicine doctor or ER doctor, is a physician who is specially trained to care for patients in the emergency department (ED). This area of the hospital is where people go when they have sudden or serious health problems that need immediate attention.
These doctors are specialized in emergency medicine, which is a medical specialty focused on treating urgent and often life-threatening conditions. They’re trained to handle everything from simple injuries to complex cases involving the heart, brain, lungs or other organs.
What does an emergency room doctor treat?
Emergency room doctors treat a wide range of medical problems. Some of these are serious and require immediate care, while others are less dangerous but still need quick treatment.
Here are some of the most common reasons people go to the emergency department:
Heart attack or chest pain
Chest pain is one of the top reasons people visit the ED. It can be a sign of a heart attack, which is a life-threatening emergency. ED doctors are trained to recognize the signs quickly, run the right tests and begin treatment right away.
“Time is heart muscle during a heart attack,” says Kendal Ayers, MD, FACEP, an emergency medicine physician at Mercy Health – Springfield Regional Medical Center in our Springfield market.
Dr. Ayers adds that women often present less commonly known symptoms when suffering a heart attack, as well as people with diabetes.
“Heart attacks in women can present very differently, and we often see a lot more vague symptoms like nausea and shortness of breath,” she says.
Stroke symptoms
Sudden numbness, trouble speaking, weakness on one side of the body or confusion can be signs of a stroke. Emergency medicine doctors know that quick treatment can make a big difference in recovery and survival.
Dr. Ayers says that it’s important to remember the acronym “BE FAST,” which stands for balance, eyes, face, arms, speech and time. If you or someone exhibits these warning signs of a stroke, it’s important to call 911 and get to an emergency department as soon as possible.
“If you are concerned that you or a family member is having a stroke, remember that time is brain,” she adds.
Trouble breathing
Shortness of breath can be caused by many conditions, including asthma, pneumonia, allergic reactions or even heart problems. An emergency department doctor will check your lungs and heart, give oxygen if needed and help you breathe more easily.
Accidents and injuries
Broken bones, cuts that need stitches, burns and other injuries are common reasons for ED visits. Whether it’s a sports injury or a car crash, emergency medicine doctors treat people with many types of trauma.
High fevers or infections
Some infections, like appendicitis or severe flu, can cause high fevers and pain. If not treated, they can lead to more serious problems. Providers in the emergency department can run tests, start antibiotics and admit patients to the hospital if needed.
Abdominal pain
Stomach pain can have many causes – some simple, others more serious like appendicitis or gallbladder problems. Doctors in the emergency department work to find the cause quickly so the right treatment can begin.
Mental health emergencies
People who are feeling very depressed, anxious or are having thoughts of self-harm can go to the emergency department for help. Providers there often work with mental health professionals to provide care and safety for these patients.
Allergic reactions
A severe allergic reaction, known as anaphylaxis, can cause swelling, breathing problems and even death if not treated quickly. Emergency doctors know how to act fast with medications like epinephrine.
Drug overdoses or poisoning
If someone has taken too much medication or a harmful substance, an ED doctor can provide treatment and support, including medicine to reverse the effects of certain drugs.
Where do emergency medicine providers work?
Emergency medicine doctors work mainly in the emergency department, but they may also help patients who need to be admitted to the hospital. They often coordinate care with other specialists, such as those in critical care medicine, anesthesiology or intensive care units.
In very serious cases, an doctor in the ED may help stabilize the patient before moving them to another department for more focused care. Their job is to make sure the patient is safe and getting the help they need as fast as possible.
What kind of training do they have?
To become an emergency medicine doctor, a physician must complete medical school and then a residency program in emergency medicine. This training focuses on treating a wide variety of urgent health problems and learning how to act quickly under pressure.
Some ED doctors also receive extra training in areas like critical care, pediatrics or trauma care. They need to be prepared for anything that comes through the doors of the emergency department.
When should you go to the ED?
You should go to the emergency department if you have a health problem that feels serious or could be life-threatening. Some examples include:
- Chest pain or pressure
- Difficulty breathing
- Sudden confusion or trouble speaking
- Severe injury or bleeding
- High fever with stiff neck or rash
- Seizures
- Signs of stroke or heart attack
If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to be safe and seek medical attention. It’s always OK to ask for help when something feels wrong.
How we can help
If you or someone you know is experiencing a medical emergency, don’t wait – call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. Knowing what an emergency room doctor treats may help you better understand when a trip to the ED is required.
Emergency room doctors are trained to treat urgent health issues, manage serious symptoms and provide life-saving care. They also work closely with other specialists to make sure you receive the right follow-up or hospital care when needed.
Learn about the emergency care services we offer at Mercy Health.
