Condition Lookup
Speciality:
Emergency and Urgent Care
Number of Conditions: 98
Bronchitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Infectious Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
persistent cough (often productive); mucus production (yellow, green, or clear); wheezing; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; fatigue; low-grade fever
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the bronchial tubes, usually due to viral infections (acute bronchitis) or long-term irritants like smoking (chronic bronchitis).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, listening to lung sounds, chest X-ray (to rule out pneumonia), sputum analysis, and sometimes spirometry for chronic cases.
Treatment:
Symptomatic relief (rest, hydration, humidifier use), bronchodilators for wheezing, and, in bacterial cases, antibiotics. Chronic bronchitis management includes smoking cessation and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Medications:
Bronchodilators like albuterol (beta-agonist), corticosteroids like fluticasone (anti-inflammatory), and antibiotics such as doxycycline if bacterial infection is confirmed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acute bronchitis is common, with millions of cases annually worldwide, while chronic bronchitis is a major component of COPD, affecting about 10% of adults over 45.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to pollutants, history of respiratory infections, weakened immunity, and asthma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Acute bronchitis typically resolves within weeks. Chronic bronchitis requires ongoing management and may lead to progressive lung damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and respiratory failure in severe cases.
Bronchiolitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Pediatric Emergencies
Sub-category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
runny nose; cough; wheezing; rapid breathing; retractions (chest wall pulling in); poor feeding; fever
Root Cause:
Inflammation and mucus build-up in the small airways (bronchioles), most commonly caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms; nasal swab tests for RSV may be used; chest X-rays only for severe cases.
Treatment:
Supportive care, including hydration, oxygen supplementation if needed, and suctioning of nasal secretions.
Medications:
No routine medications; bronchodilators or nebulized hypertonic saline may be used in selected cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 20–30% of infants under 1 year old, with higher rates during winter and spring.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Premature birth, age under 6 months, exposure to cigarette smoke, crowded living conditions, daycare attendance.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most recover with supportive care; severe cases may require hospitalization and oxygen therapy. Rarely leads to long-term respiratory issues.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory distress, hypoxia, dehydration, and secondary bacterial infections such as pneumonia.
Croup
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Pediatric Emergencies
Sub-category: Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
barking cough; hoarseness; stridor (high-pitched wheezing); difficulty breathing; fever; nasal congestion
Root Cause:
Swelling and inflammation of the upper airway, typically caused by viral infections such as parainfluenza virus.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on characteristic symptoms and physical examination; imaging or additional tests are rarely needed.
Treatment:
Supportive care (hydration, humidified air), corticosteroids to reduce airway inflammation, and nebulized epinephrine for severe cases.
Medications:
Dexamethasone or prednisone (corticosteroids) to reduce inflammation; nebulized epinephrine (adrenergic agonist) for acute airway swelling.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children aged 6 months to 3 years, particularly during fall and winter months.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young age, exposure to viral infections, attending daycare, family history of respiratory conditions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most cases resolve with supportive care; severe cases respond well to medical treatment. Rarely requires hospitalization.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe airway obstruction, hypoxia, bacterial superinfection, and, in rare cases, respiratory failure.
Concussion and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Blunt Trauma
Symptoms:
headache; confusion; dizziness; nausea; vomiting; temporary loss of consciousness; difficulty concentrating; memory problems; sleep disturbances; mood changes
Root Cause:
Disruption in normal brain function due to a direct blow, jolt, or penetrating injury to the head causing mechanical damage to brain tissue.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), neurological exam, imaging studies (CT scan or MRI).
Treatment:
Rest, symptom management, physical and cognitive rehabilitation, and monitoring for complications.
Medications:
Pain relievers (acetaminophen ), anti-nausea medications, and sometimes anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin ) or diuretics (e.g., mannitol ) to reduce intracranial pressure.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Millions of cases worldwide annually, with mild TBI (concussion) being the most common.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sports injuries, motor vehicle accidents, falls, and assaults.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most mild TBIs resolve with proper care; severe TBIs may result in lasting neurological deficits or disability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-concussion syndrome, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), seizures, and long-term cognitive or psychological impairments.
Fractures (e.g., Skull, Ribs, Limbs, Spine)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Blunt Trauma
Symptoms:
pain at the injury site; swelling; bruising; deformity; difficulty moving affected limb or area
Root Cause:
Break or crack in a bone caused by direct trauma, repetitive stress, or pathological weakening.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs.
Treatment:
Immobilization (casts, splints), surgical intervention (internal fixation or external fixation), and pain management.
Medications:
Pain relievers (NSAIDs like ibuprofen ), bone-strengthening agents (e.g., bisphosphonates in pathological fractures).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; occurs across all age groups, with higher incidence in older adults due to osteoporosis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact injuries, falls, repetitive stress, bone diseases (e.g., osteoporosis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; simple fractures heal with proper treatment, but complex fractures may lead to long-term complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, nonunion, infection, compartment syndrome, and nerve or vascular damage.
Contusions and Lacerations
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Soft Tissue Injuries
Symptoms:
pain; swelling; discoloration or bruising; open wound; bleeding
Root Cause:
Blunt or sharp trauma causing damage to the skin, underlying tissue, and blood vessels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, wound assessment, and imaging if deeper structures are suspected to be involved.
Treatment:
Cleaning and closing the wound (stitches, staples, or adhesive strips), bandaging, and monitoring for infection.
Medications:
Antibiotics (topical or systemic for infection prevention), tetanus prophylaxis if necessary, pain relievers (acetaminophen or NSAIDs).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Very common; affects people of all ages, often due to accidents or sports injuries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports, workplace hazards, and high-risk activities.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with proper wound care; healing time depends on severity.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, delayed healing, and damage to underlying structures.
Splenic Rupture
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Internal Organ Trauma
Symptoms:
left upper abdominal pain; shoulder pain; dizziness; fainting; low blood pressure; rapid heart rate
Root Cause:
Tearing or damage to the spleen due to blunt or penetrating trauma, leading to internal bleeding.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam, ultrasound (FAST), CT scan, and laboratory tests to assess blood loss.
Treatment:
Monitoring for stable cases, surgical intervention (splenectomy or repair) for severe cases, and blood transfusions if needed.
Medications:
Pain management (opioids or acetaminophen ), prophylactic antibiotics post-splenectomy, and vaccinations (e.g., pneumococcal vaccine).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; most common in high-impact trauma cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Abdominal trauma, pre-existing splenic conditions (e.g., splenomegaly).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely intervention; loss of spleen increases risk of infections.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, infection, and immune system compromise post-splenectomy.
Internal Bleeding
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Internal Organ Trauma
Symptoms:
abdominal pain; swelling; pallor; dizziness; fainting; rapid heartbeat; low blood pressure
Root Cause:
Damage to blood vessels or organs resulting in bleeding within the body, often due to trauma or rupture of blood vessels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Imaging studies (ultrasound, CT scan), blood tests (hemoglobin/hematocrit), and clinical signs.
Treatment:
Stabilization, fluid resuscitation, blood transfusions, and surgical intervention to stop bleeding.
Medications:
Antifibrinolytics (e.g., tranexamic acid) in certain trauma cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in severe trauma cases and certain medical conditions (e.g., aortic aneurysm rupture).
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-impact trauma, anticoagulant therapy, and coagulopathies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the source and volume of bleeding; timely treatment is crucial.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hemorrhagic shock, organ failure, and death if untreated.
Stab wounds
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Penetrating Trauma
Symptoms:
bleeding; pain at the injury site; swelling; difficulty breathing (if affecting the chest); shock symptoms such as rapid heart rate and low blood pressure
Root Cause:
A penetrating injury caused by a sharp object that disrupts tissues, organs, or blood vessels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound), blood tests, and assessment for internal organ damage.
Treatment:
Control bleeding, wound cleaning and suturing, surgical exploration or repair, antibiotics to prevent infection, and tetanus prophylaxis.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as cefazolin (a first-generation cephalosporin) to prevent infection and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain management.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence varies globally, often associated with interpersonal violence or accidental injuries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-crime areas, involvement in violence, occupational hazards, and improper handling of sharp objects.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the severity and location of the injury; prompt treatment improves outcomes significantly.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, damage to internal organs or blood vessels, shock, and long-term disability.
Gunshot wounds
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Penetrating Trauma
Symptoms:
bleeding; severe pain; open wounds; difficulty breathing (if affecting the chest); neurological deficits (if affecting the nervous system); shock symptoms
Root Cause:
A penetrating injury caused by a projectile (bullet) that causes tissue destruction, organ damage, and possible vascular injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging (X-ray, CT scan, MRI), wound trajectory assessment, and vascular studies.
Treatment:
Control bleeding (tourniquets or direct pressure), wound cleaning, surgical repair of organ or vascular damage, and antibiotic prophylaxis.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics like piperacillin-tazobactam to prevent infection, analgesics such as morphine (an opioid pain reliever), and tetanus prophylaxis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence depends on gun violence rates, with higher rates in areas of armed conflict or high firearm availability.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Firearm accessibility, interpersonal violence, and occupational hazards for security personnel.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies with the injury’s location and extent; outcomes are improved with rapid medical intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, organ failure, neurological damage, amputation, and psychological trauma.
Penetrating chest or abdominal injuries
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Penetrating Trauma
Symptoms:
bleeding; shortness of breath; chest or abdominal pain; visible wounds; abdominal distension; shock symptoms; absent or decreased breath sounds in pneumothorax
Root Cause:
Trauma causing a break in the chest or abdominal wall, leading to organ or vascular damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST), CT scans, chest X-rays, physical examination, and diagnostic peritoneal lavage.
Treatment:
Airway management, chest tube placement (for pneumothorax or hemothorax), surgical intervention for internal repair, blood transfusion, and infection prevention.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone combined with metronidazole to cover gram-negative and anaerobic bacteria) and pain medications like ketorolac (a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in motor vehicle accidents, violence, and industrial accidents.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Involvement in high-risk activities, accidents, and lack of protective equipment.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; survival depends on the severity and timeliness of treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Internal bleeding, infection, organ failure, and chronic pain or dysfunction.
First-, Second-, and Third-Degree Burns
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Burns and Thermal Injuries
Symptoms:
pain or discomfort; redness; blisters; charred or white skin; swelling; loss of sensation (in third-degree burns)
Root Cause:
Damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by heat, radiation, or friction, with severity determined by depth of tissue injury.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of burn depth, size (using the rule of nines or Lund-Browder chart), and presence of secondary complications such as infection.
Treatment:
Wound cooling (cool water for minor burns), topical antimicrobial creams, pain management, debridement of dead tissue, and skin grafting for severe burns. Hospitalization for IV fluids and monitoring in extensive burns.
Medications:
Medications may include topical antimicrobials like silver sulfadiazine (to prevent infection), pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen , and in severe cases, opioids for pain. Antibiotics are prescribed if infection occurs.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Burns account for over 180,000 deaths annually worldwide, with many more sustaining non-fatal injuries; prevalent in children and industrial workers.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to open flames, scalding liquids, industrial accidents, lack of safety measures, and high-risk environments (kitchens, factories).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Minor burns heal within weeks; severe burns require long-term management, rehabilitation, and may lead to permanent scarring or disability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infections, sepsis, dehydration, hypothermia, hypertrophic scars, contractures, and long-term psychological effects.
Smoke Inhalation Injuries
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Respiratory Injuries
Symptoms:
coughing; difficulty breathing; hoarseness; soot in the nostrils or throat; wheezing; burns in the mouth or throat; altered mental state due to hypoxia
Root Cause:
Damage to the respiratory tract from inhaling hot gases, toxic fumes, or particulate matter during a fire.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, visible signs of inhalation, chest X-rays, bronchoscopy, arterial blood gases (ABG), and carboxyhemoglobin levels.
Treatment:
Immediate airway stabilization, oxygen therapy, bronchodilators, suctioning secretions, and mechanical ventilation in severe cases. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Medications:
Bronchodilators such as albuterol (to relieve bronchospasm) and corticosteroids like methylprednisolone (to reduce inflammation). Antibiotics if infection is suspected.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A common cause of injury in fire-related incidents; smoke inhalation contributes to up to 60% of fire-related deaths.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to enclosed fires, chemical plants, or industrial fires, and lack of proper safety equipment.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the severity; mild cases recover with supportive care, while severe cases with complications (e.g., ARDS) have higher mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, carbon monoxide poisoning, and long-term pulmonary dysfunction.
Electrical Burns
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Electrical Injuries
Symptoms:
burns at entry and exit points; muscle pain; numbness or tingling; arrhythmias; seizures; loss of consciousness
Root Cause:
Damage to tissues caused by electrical current passing through the body, generating heat and causing burns or other internal injuries.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment of visible burns, ECG for arrhythmias, imaging (CT or MRI) for internal injuries, and blood tests to assess rhabdomyolysis.
Treatment:
Immediate removal from the electrical source, resuscitation if needed, wound care, hydration to prevent kidney damage from rhabdomyolysis, and monitoring for cardiac issues.
Medications:
Pain management with acetaminophen or ibuprofen , muscle relaxants for spasms, and antibiotics if wounds become infected.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Electrical injuries are relatively rare, accounting for about 1,000 fatalities annually in the U.S., with thousands more injured.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Occupational hazards (e.g., electricians), contact with live wires or lightning strikes, and unsafe handling of electrical devices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Outcomes depend on the voltage and duration of contact; low-voltage injuries often heal well, while high-voltage injuries can be fatal or disabling.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, nerve damage, compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, and multi-organ failure in severe cases.
Chemical Burns
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Chemical Injuries
Symptoms:
pain at the contact site; redness; blisters; vision loss if in the eyes; difficulty breathing if inhaled; necrosis of affected tissues
Root Cause:
Damage to tissues caused by exposure to corrosive substances such as acids, alkalis, or other chemicals.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Evaluation of history, clinical examination, pH testing of affected areas, and imaging for deeper tissue damage.
Treatment:
Immediate irrigation with water (unless contraindicated), removal of contaminated clothing, neutralizing agents (if appropriate), and specialized wound care. Hospitalization for severe burns.
Medications:
Pain relievers (acetaminophen or ibuprofen ), antibiotics for secondary infections, and topical agents like silver sulfadiazine for wound care.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Chemical burns are a leading cause of workplace injuries, with thousands of cases reported annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Industrial or household chemical exposure, inadequate protective equipment, and improper handling of chemicals.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies by chemical and exposure duration; mild burns heal quickly, while severe burns may lead to scarring, functional loss, or systemic toxicity.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, systemic absorption leading to organ damage, and permanent disability.
Dislocations (e.g., shoulder, hip, knee)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Orthopedic Injuries
Symptoms:
severe pain; visible deformity; limited or no movement; swelling; bruising; numbness or tingling in the affected area
Root Cause:
The joint is forced out of its normal position, often due to trauma or extreme force.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, X-ray, MRI (if soft tissue injury is suspected).
Treatment:
Joint reduction (manual repositioning), immobilization (e.g., sling), physical therapy to restore function, surgical repair for recurrent dislocations or associated injuries.
Medications:
Pain relief with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or naproxen ), muscle relaxants (e.g., diazepam ), and local anesthetics during reduction procedures.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, especially in contact sports and high-impact accidents; shoulder dislocations are the most frequent type.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact sports, falls, accidents, hypermobility syndromes, previous dislocations.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt treatment; risk of recurrent dislocations increases without adequate rehabilitation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Nerve damage, blood vessel injury, chronic instability, arthritis, or avascular necrosis (in hip dislocations).
Ligament tears (e.g., ACL, PCL)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Orthopedic Injuries
Symptoms:
sudden pain; popping sound at the time of injury; joint instability; swelling; restricted range of motion; difficulty bearing weight
Root Cause:
The ligament is stretched or torn due to sudden force, twisting, or impact.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (e.g., Lachman test), MRI for detailed imaging, X-rays to rule out fractures.
Treatment:
Initial RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), bracing, physical therapy, surgical reconstruction in severe cases or for active individuals.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , diclofenac ) for pain and inflammation control.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common, particularly in athletes; ACL injuries are more frequent in females due to anatomical and hormonal factors.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sports requiring sudden stops or pivots (e.g., soccer, basketball), inadequate conditioning, improper footwear.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; surgical reconstruction often restores full function in athletes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic instability, osteoarthritis, re-injury, reduced athletic performance.
Tendon injuries (e.g., Achilles rupture)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Soft Tissue Injuries
Symptoms:
sudden sharp pain in the back of the lower leg; difficulty walking; swelling near the heel; visible gap in the tendon; weakness in pushing off during walking or running
Root Cause:
Complete or partial tear of the tendon due to excessive stress, sudden force, or degeneration.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination (e.g., Thompson test), MRI, or ultrasound to confirm the extent of the injury.
Treatment:
Conservative management with casting or bracing, surgical repair in active individuals, followed by physical therapy.
Medications:
NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , celecoxib ) to control pain and inflammation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in males aged 30–50; frequently occurs in recreational athletes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sports involving jumping or sudden acceleration, poor conditioning, use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics, steroid injections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with proper treatment; surgery has a lower risk of re-rupture compared to conservative methods.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Re-rupture, stiffness, chronic weakness, deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Deep Lacerations
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Soft Tissue Injuries
Symptoms:
severe bleeding; visible separation of skin and underlying tissue; pain at the injury site; swelling; impaired function of the affected area
Root Cause:
Damage to skin, muscles, blood vessels, and potentially nerves or tendons, often caused by sharp objects or trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Visual examination, assessment of depth and extent of the wound, evaluation for nerve, vessel, or tendon injury.
Treatment:
Wound cleaning, suturing or surgical repair, pressure application to control bleeding, and wound dressing.
Medications:
Antibiotics (e.g., amoxicillin-clavulanate) to prevent infection; tetanus prophylaxis; local anesthesia for wound repair; analgesics for pain relief.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in trauma cases, accounting for a significant portion of emergency department visits.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Handling sharp tools or machinery, accidental falls, workplace or sports injuries.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely and appropriate wound care; delayed treatment increases risk of infection or poor wound healing.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, scarring, nerve or tendon damage, chronic pain, impaired function of the affected area.
Severe Contusions
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Trauma and Injuries
Sub-category: Soft Tissue Injuries
Symptoms:
pain and tenderness at the site; swelling; skin discoloration (bruising); stiffness; reduced range of motion in affected area; lump or hematoma formation
Root Cause:
Blunt trauma causes capillary damage, leading to bleeding under the skin and within muscles. Severe cases may involve deep tissue or bone bruising.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination of the injury, palpation, assessment of range of motion, and imaging (X-ray or MRI) if underlying fractures or hematomas are suspected.
Treatment:
Rest, ice application, compression, elevation (RICE therapy); physical therapy for severe or persistent cases; surgical intervention for hematoma evacuation in rare cases.
Medications:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen for pain and inflammation; acetaminophen as an alternative for pain management.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in sports injuries, falls, and minor traumas; severe contusions are less frequent but occur in high-impact injuries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact sports, motor vehicle accidents, falls, direct trauma, anticoagulant therapy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually good with conservative treatment; extensive injuries may require longer recovery periods or physical therapy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hematoma formation, compartment syndrome in severe cases, calcification of injured tissue (myositis ossificans), chronic pain.
Atrial Fibrillation with Rapid Ventricular Response (AFib with RVR)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Cardiac Emergencies
Sub-category: Arrhythmias
Symptoms:
palpitations; shortness of breath; chest discomfort; dizziness; fatigue
Root Cause:
Electrical impulses in the atria are disorganized and rapid, leading to ineffective atrial contractions. This rapid rate can cause the ventricles to beat too fast, impairing cardiac output.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Electrocardiogram (ECG), physical examination, vital signs, blood tests (electrolytes, thyroid function), echocardiogram.
Treatment:
Rate control (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers), rhythm control (e.g., cardioversion or antiarrhythmics), anticoagulation to prevent stroke.
Medications:
Beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) to slow the heart rate, calcium channel blockers (e.g., diltiazem or verapamil ) for rate control, and anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin , rivaroxaban ) to reduce the risk of stroke. Antiarrhythmics (e.g., amiodarone ) may be used for rhythm control.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 2% of the global population; more common in older adults and those with heart disease.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, heart failure, coronary artery disease, valvular heart disease, hyperthyroidism, alcohol use, obesity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper rate/rhythm control and anticoagulation, most patients have a good prognosis. Untreated, it may lead to heart failure or stroke.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, thromboembolism (e.g., stroke), tachycardia-induced cardiomyopathy.
Bradycardia (e.g., Heart Block)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Cardiac Emergencies
Sub-category: Arrhythmias
Symptoms:
fatigue; dizziness; lightheadedness; syncope; shortness of breath; chest discomfort
Root Cause:
Impaired electrical conduction through the heart, commonly at the sinoatrial node, atrioventricular node, or bundle branches, leading to a slow heart rate and reduced cardiac output.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
ECG, Holter monitoring, electrophysiology studies, blood tests (to evaluate reversible causes such as electrolyte imbalances or hypothyroidism).
Treatment:
Reversible causes are addressed first (e.g., electrolyte correction, medication adjustments). Pacemaker placement may be required in symptomatic cases or high-grade heart block.
Medications:
Atropine (anticholinergic to increase heart rate in emergencies), dopamine or epinephrine (vasopressors for hemodynamic support).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults or individuals with underlying heart disease; can occur in healthy individuals due to athletic conditioning.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Aging, ischemic heart disease, cardiomyopathy, prior cardiac surgery, electrolyte disturbances, certain medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with appropriate treatment; untreated severe bradycardia can lead to syncope, heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Syncope, heart failure, sudden cardiac arrest in untreated cases.
Acute decompensated heart failure
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Cardiac Emergencies
Sub-category: Heart Failure
Symptoms:
shortness of breath (dyspnea); fatigue; edema (swelling in legs or abdomen); rapid weight gain; orthopnea (difficulty breathing while lying down); wheezing or coughing with frothy sputum; reduced ability to exercise
Root Cause:
Worsening of chronic heart failure leading to fluid buildup in the lungs and body due to the heart's inability to pump effectively.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical symptoms (e.g., dyspnea, edema), chest X-ray, elevated natriuretic peptides (BNP/NT-proBNP), and echocardiography.
Treatment:
Treated with diuretics (e.g., furosemide), vasodilators (e.g., nitroglycerin), inotropes for severe cases, and addressing the underlying cause.
Medications:
Intravenous diuretics like furosemide (loop diuretics), vasodilators like nitroglycerin or nitroprusside (nitrates), inotropes such as dobutamine or milrinone (positive inotropic agents).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A common condition seen in emergency settings, affecting millions worldwide, especially in older adults with chronic heart disease.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic heart failure, coronary artery disease, hypertension, arrhythmias, diabetes, obesity, and high-sodium diets.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, symptoms can be managed, but long-term outcomes depend on the underlying heart condition; recurrent episodes are common.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary edema, cardiogenic shock, organ failure (kidneys or liver), arrhythmias, and increased mortality risk.
Hypertensive Emergencies
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Cardiac Emergencies
Sub-category: Hypertension-related Conditions
Symptoms:
severe headache; chest pain; shortness of breath; blurred vision; confusion; nausea or vomiting; seizures
Root Cause:
Critically elevated blood pressure (typically >180/120 mmHg) causing acute end-organ damage (e.g., heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement, clinical signs of end-organ damage, lab tests (renal function, electrolytes), and imaging (e.g., CT for stroke, ECG for cardiac involvement).
Treatment:
Immediate blood pressure reduction using intravenous antihypertensives and addressing the specific end-organ damage.
Medications:
IV antihypertensives like nitroprusside (vasodilator), labetalol (beta-blocker), nicardipine (calcium channel blocker), or hydralazine . Oral antihypertensives are introduced later.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1-2% of patients with chronic hypertension.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poorly controlled hypertension, noncompliance with antihypertensive medications, kidney disease, and pregnancy (e.g., eclampsia).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on promptness of treatment; delayed care can result in severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, acute kidney injury, and retinal damage.
Anaphylaxis-Related Airway Swelling
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Upper Airway Obstruction
Symptoms:
sudden onset of throat tightness; difficulty breathing; stridor; facial swelling; rash; hypotension; tachycardia
Root Cause:
Severe allergic reaction triggers histamine release, causing airway swelling, bronchoconstriction, and systemic vasodilation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation and history of allergen exposure; confirmed by elevated serum tryptase levels post-reaction.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of intramuscular epinephrine, followed by airway management, IV fluids, and additional medications for symptom control.
Medications:
Epinephrine (adrenergic agonist) as the first-line treatment. Antihistamines like diphenhydramine (H1 blocker) and ranitidine (H2 blocker). Corticosteroids such as methylprednisolone to reduce late-phase reactions. Beta-agonists like albuterol for bronchospasm.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1.6%–5% lifetime risk in the general population; more common with increased allergen exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Known allergies, previous anaphylaxis, atopic conditions (e.g., asthma, eczema), or medications like penicillin.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with prompt epinephrine administration; potentially fatal if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, anoxic brain injury, cardiovascular collapse, or death.
Asthma exacerbation
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
shortness of breath; wheezing; chest tightness; coughing; rapid breathing; use of accessory muscles for breathing; cyanosis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Acute inflammation and narrowing of the airways caused by triggers like allergens, infections, or irritants, leading to increased airway resistance and airflow obstruction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation (symptoms, history of asthma), physical exam (wheezing on auscultation), and pulmonary function tests like spirometry or peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Pulse oximetry and arterial blood gases (ABGs) may be used in severe cases.
Treatment:
Oxygen therapy, bronchodilators (short-acting beta-agonists like albuterol), corticosteroids (oral or IV), anticholinergics (ipratropium), and sometimes magnesium sulfate in severe cases. Address triggers and provide mechanical ventilation if needed.
Medications:
Short-acting beta-agonists (SABAs) like albuterol (bronchodilator), inhaled anticholinergics like ipratropium (bronchodilator), systemic corticosteroids like prednisone or methylprednisolone (anti-inflammatory), and magnesium sulfate (smooth muscle relaxant) in severe exacerbations.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Asthma affects about 5-10% of the global population; exacerbations vary widely but are a common cause of emergency department visits.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor asthma control, exposure to allergens or irritants, respiratory infections, exercise, cold air, smoking, and comorbidities like obesity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely and appropriate treatment, most exacerbations are reversible. Severe cases without treatment can lead to respiratory failure and death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxia, respiratory failure, pneumothorax, pneumonia, and cardiovascular strain.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbation
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
increased shortness of breath; wheezing; chronic cough; increased sputum production; fatigue; cyanosis; confusion in severe cases
Root Cause:
Acute worsening of chronic airflow limitation due to increased airway inflammation, mucus hypersecretion, and possible infection or exposure to irritants.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical exam (wheezing, decreased breath sounds), pulse oximetry, arterial blood gases (ABGs), chest X-ray, and sometimes sputum analysis or blood tests. Spirometry is used to assess baseline lung function.
Treatment:
Oxygen therapy (target SpO2
Medications:
Albuterol (short-acting beta-agonist), ipratropium (anticholinergic), systemic corticosteroids like prednisone or methylprednisolone for inflammation, and antibiotics like azithromycin or amoxicillin /clavulanate for bacterial infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-15% of adults worldwide; exacerbations are a leading cause of hospitalizations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, exposure to air pollutants, respiratory infections, poorly controlled COPD, and advanced age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery is possible with treatment; recurrent exacerbations accelerate lung function decline and increase mortality risk.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, pneumonia, pulmonary hypertension, and right-sided heart failure (cor pulmonale).
Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Lower Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
severe shortness of breath; rapid breathing; cyanosis; hypoxia unresponsive to oxygen therapy; low blood pressure; organ dysfunction in severe cases
Root Cause:
Widespread inflammation and increased permeability of the pulmonary capillaries, leading to alveolar fluid accumulation, impaired gas exchange, and hypoxemia. Often caused by sepsis, trauma, or pneumonia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, arterial blood gases (ABGs) showing hypoxemia, chest X-ray or CT scan (diffuse bilateral infiltrates), and exclusion of cardiac causes (normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure).
Treatment:
Mechanical ventilation with low tidal volumes, prone positioning, sedation, and supportive care for underlying causes (e.g., antibiotics for infection, fluids, and vasopressors for shock).
Medications:
Sedatives like propofol or midazolam (reduce ventilatory distress), vasopressors like norepinephrine (support blood pressure), antibiotics for infections, and diuretics like furosemide for fluid overload.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 10-15% of ICU patients; mortality ranges from 30-50%, depending on severity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sepsis, major trauma, pneumonia, aspiration, pancreatitis, blood transfusions, and inhalation injuries.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; depends on severity and treatment. Survivors may have lasting pulmonary fibrosis and reduced quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, secondary infections, pulmonary fibrosis, and multi-organ failure.
Pulmonary embolism (PE)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Pulmonary Vascular Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden shortness of breath; chest pain (pleuritic or sharp); cough; hemoptysis; rapid heart rate; lightheadedness; cyanosis; leg swelling (if deep vein thrombosis is present)
Root Cause:
Blockage of one or more pulmonary arteries by a blood clot (usually from a deep vein thrombosis), causing impaired blood flow, increased pulmonary vascular resistance, and hypoxemia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, D-dimer test, imaging like CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA), ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan, and Doppler ultrasound for DVT.
Treatment:
Anticoagulation (heparin, warfarin, or DOACs), thrombolytic therapy in severe cases, oxygen therapy, and sometimes surgical or catheter-directed embolectomy.
Medications:
Heparin (anticoagulant for immediate effect), warfarin or direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) like rivaroxaban or apixaban (long-term anticoagulation), and alteplase (thrombolytic agent for massive PE).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence is approximately 60-70 cases per 100,000 people annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged immobility, surgery, trauma, pregnancy, oral contraceptive use, cancer, and genetic clotting disorders.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, survival rates are high. Untreated, it can be fatal within hours.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pulmonary hypertension, right heart failure, and recurrent embolism.
Pneumothorax (spontaneous or tension)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Pleural Disorders
Symptoms:
sudden chest pain; shortness of breath; rapid heart rate; cyanosis; hypotension (in tension pneumothorax); tracheal deviation (in tension pneumothorax); decreased breath sounds on the affected side
Root Cause:
Air enters the pleural space, causing lung collapse. Tension pneumothorax involves increasing pressure, compressing mediastinal structures, and impairing venous return.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation (tracheal deviation, hypotension, and decreased breath sounds in tension pneumothorax), chest X-ray (collapsed lung and air in pleural space), and ultrasound (rapid bedside diagnosis).
Treatment:
Needle decompression followed by chest tube placement for tension pneumothorax; observation or chest tube placement for spontaneous pneumothorax depending on size and symptoms.
Medications:
Analgesics like morphine or acetaminophen (pain relief) and sedatives if procedural interventions are needed.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Spontaneous pneumothorax affects approximately 7-28 per 100,000 people annually; tension pneumothorax is less common but life-threatening.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Smoking, tall and thin body type, trauma, underlying lung diseases (COPD, cystic fibrosis), and mechanical ventilation.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely intervention, prognosis is excellent; untreated tension pneumothorax is rapidly fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent pneumothorax, infection, pleural adhesions, and respiratory failure in severe cases.
COVID-19 Complications
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Respiratory Emergencies
Sub-category: Infectious Respiratory Conditions
Symptoms:
severe shortness of breath; high fever; persistent cough; chest pain; hypoxia; confusion; fatigue; multisystem organ failure; loss of taste or smell
Root Cause:
Severe respiratory distress or systemic involvement caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, leading to complications such as ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome), thromboembolic events, or cytokine storm.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Positive RT-PCR or antigen test for SARS-CoV-2, chest imaging (X-ray or CT), blood tests (D-dimer, CRP, ferritin), and pulse oximetry or arterial blood gas analysis.
Treatment:
Supportive care (oxygen therapy, ventilators for severe cases), antiviral drugs (e.g., remdesivir), anti-inflammatory treatments like dexamethasone, anticoagulants, and immunomodulators.
Medications:
Antivirals such as remdesivir (antiviral), corticosteroids like dexamethasone (anti-inflammatory), anticoagulants like enoxaparin (anticoagulant), and monoclonal antibodies like tocilizumab (immunomodulator).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Global pandemic with millions affected; complications occur in approximately 10-15% of cases, particularly in those with comorbidities.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies widely; mild cases recover fully, while severe cases may result in prolonged hospitalization, long-term organ damage, or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
ARDS, sepsis, thromboembolic events (e.g., pulmonary embolism), myocarditis, kidney failure, and long COVID symptoms like fatigue and brain fog.
New-Onset Seizures
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Neurological Emergencies
Sub-category: Seizures
Symptoms:
sudden loss of consciousness; uncontrolled jerking movements; confusion; loss of bladder or bowel control; aura (sensory or perceptual disturbances); postictal state of confusion or drowsiness
Root Cause:
Abnormal electrical activity in the brain due to various potential causes, including head trauma, infections, electrolyte imbalances, structural brain abnormalities, or unknown (idiopathic).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History and physical examination, EEG to assess brain activity, blood tests to rule out metabolic triggers, and imaging (MRI or CT) to identify structural causes or lesions.
Treatment:
Immediate stabilization, treating any identified underlying cause, and, in some cases, starting antiepileptic medications.
Medications:
Treatment may involve levetiracetam , phenytoin , valproic acid, or lamotrigine (anticonvulsants). Medications are selected based on the seizure type and patient profile.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
About 40-70 cases per 100,000 individuals annually, with higher incidence in children and the elderly.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Head trauma, CNS infections, metabolic disturbances, drug intoxication or withdrawal, and family history of epilepsy.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; some cases resolve after treating the underlying cause, while others may lead to a diagnosis of epilepsy. Early diagnosis and treatment improve outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of recurrent seizures, progression to status epilepticus, injury during seizures, and psychological effects such as anxiety or depression.
Acute Meningitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Neurological Emergencies
Sub-category: Other Neurological Conditions
Symptoms:
fever; severe headache; neck stiffness; nausea and vomiting; sensitivity to light (photophobia); altered mental status; seizures
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the meninges, often caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, lumbar puncture (CSF analysis), blood cultures, and imaging studies like CT or MRI (to rule out other conditions).
Treatment:
Empiric antibiotics (if bacterial is suspected), antivirals (if viral is suspected), supportive care (hydration, antipyretics, and analgesics).
Medications:
Third-generation cephalosporins (e.g., ceftriaxone or cefotaxime ), vancomycin (for resistant organisms), acyclovir (for suspected viral causes), and corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation in bacterial meningitis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Variable; bacterial meningitis affects approximately 1-2 per 100,000 annually in developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent respiratory or ear infections, immunosuppression, head trauma, close contact with infected individuals, unvaccinated status.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prompt treatment improves outcomes; mortality is 10–30% in bacterial meningitis, with long-term neurological complications in survivors.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Brain damage, hearing loss, hydrocephalus, seizures, and death if untreated.
Encephalitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Neurological Emergencies
Sub-category: Infectious Neurological Conditions
Symptoms:
fever; headache; altered consciousness; seizures; confusion; weakness; speech difficulties
Root Cause:
Inflammation of brain parenchyma, often caused by viral infections (e.g., herpes simplex virus) or autoimmune processes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, imaging (MRI), lumbar puncture (CSF analysis), EEG, and PCR testing for viral DNA/RNA.
Treatment:
Antiviral therapy, immunomodulatory therapy (if autoimmune), supportive care for seizures and intracranial pressure.
Medications:
Acyclovir (antiviral for herpes simplex encephalitis ), corticosteroids or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) for autoimmune encephalitis .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
5–10 cases per 100,000 annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Immunosuppression, travel to endemic areas, mosquito or tick bites, young or elderly age.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early treatment improves outcomes, but neurological sequelae may persist in severe cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cognitive deficits, motor dysfunction, seizures, and death in severe cases.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage (SAH)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Neurological Emergencies
Sub-category: Hemorrhagic Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden severe headache (thunderclap headache); neck stiffness; nausea and vomiting; altered consciousness; seizures; focal neurological deficits
Root Cause:
Bleeding into the subarachnoid space, often caused by ruptured cerebral aneurysm or head trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
CT scan (non-contrast), lumbar puncture (if CT is negative but SAH is suspected), cerebral angiography.
Treatment:
Stabilization (airway, breathing, circulation), blood pressure control, neurosurgical intervention (clipping or coiling of aneurysm).
Medications:
Nimodipine (calcium channel blocker to prevent vasospasm), antihypertensives (e.g., labetalol ), antiepileptics for seizure prevention.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
6–9 cases per 100,000 annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, smoking, family history of aneurysms, polycystic kidney disease, cocaine use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality; 50% die within 30 days; survivors may have significant neurological deficits.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rebleeding, vasospasm, hydrocephalus, cerebral infarction, long-term cognitive impairment.
Spinal Cord Compression or Injury
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Neurological Emergencies
Sub-category: Traumatic and Non-Traumatic Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden or gradual weakness; loss of sensation; bowel or bladder dysfunction; back pain radiating to limbs; paralysis in severe cases
Root Cause:
Pressure on the spinal cord from trauma, tumor, infection, or degenerative changes.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
MRI (preferred imaging), CT scan, neurological examination, X-ray (if trauma suspected).
Treatment:
Immediate stabilization, surgical decompression, corticosteroids (for inflammation), physical rehabilitation.
Medications:
Methylprednisolone (for acute trauma in selected cases), analgesics for pain, antibiotics (if infection is suspected).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Traumatic cases affect 40–80 per million annually worldwide; non-traumatic cases vary by etiology.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Trauma (falls, accidents), tumors, osteoporosis, infection, degenerative spine diseases.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Dependent on the cause and timing of treatment; early intervention improves functional outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent paralysis, chronic pain, infections (e.g., pneumonia), deep vein thrombosis, pressure ulcers.
Cholecystitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Acute Abdominal Pain
Symptoms:
right upper quadrant abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; fever; pain radiating to the shoulder or back; tenderness in the right upper quadrant
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the gallbladder, usually due to obstruction of the cystic duct by gallstones.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, abdominal ultrasound, HIDA scan, and elevated inflammatory markers (WBC, CRP).
Treatment:
Fasting (NPO), intravenous fluids, pain control, antibiotics, and cholecystectomy (surgical removal of the gallbladder).
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (penicillin class) or ceftriaxone with metronidazole are commonly prescribed. NSAIDs or opioids for pain management.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 10-15% of the adult population, with acute cholecystitis being a complication in a smaller proportion.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Female gender, obesity, pregnancy, age over 40, rapid weight loss, high-fat diet.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; untreated cases can lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Gallbladder rupture, peritonitis, sepsis, emphysematous cholecystitis.
Pancreatitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Acute Abdominal Pain
Symptoms:
severe upper abdominal pain; pain radiating to the back; nausea; vomiting; fever; abdominal tenderness; jaundice in some cases
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the pancreas due to gallstones, alcohol use, or other factors like hypertriglyceridemia or trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment, elevated serum amylase and lipase levels, abdominal ultrasound, or CT scan.
Treatment:
Supportive care with fasting (NPO), IV fluids, pain control, and treating the underlying cause (e.g., gallstone removal). Severe cases may require intensive care or surgical intervention.
Medications:
Analgesics such as morphine (opioid) or NSAIDs for pain; antibiotics only in cases of infected pancreatic necrosis.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
About 50 cases per 100,000 annually in developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Alcohol abuse, gallstones, high triglycerides, smoking, certain medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; mild cases resolve in days, while severe cases can lead to multi-organ failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Pancreatic necrosis, pseudocysts, infection, systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS).
Perforated Viscus
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Acute Abdominal Pain
Symptoms:
sudden severe abdominal pain; rigid abdomen; fever; nausea; vomiting; hypotension; tachycardia
Root Cause:
Perforation of the gastrointestinal tract, leading to leakage of contents into the abdominal cavity and peritonitis. Common causes include peptic ulcers, diverticulitis, or trauma.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination, X-ray or CT showing free air under the diaphragm (pneumoperitoneum), and blood tests for infection markers.
Treatment:
Emergency surgery to repair the perforation, IV antibiotics, and supportive care.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics like ceftriaxone with metronidazole or piperacillin-tazobactam to manage peritonitis. Pain relief with opioids.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but life-threatening, particularly in patients with peptic ulcers or diverticulitis.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
NSAID use, corticosteroids, smoking, alcohol use, peptic ulcer disease, trauma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on timely intervention; high mortality without treatment.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Sepsis, multi-organ failure, death.
Upper GI Bleed (e.g., Variceal Bleed, Peptic Ulcer)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Symptoms:
hematemesis (vomiting blood); melena (black, tarry stools); abdominal pain; lightheadedness; pallor; fatigue; shock in severe cases
Root Cause:
Bleeding from the upper gastrointestinal tract, often due to peptic ulcers, varices, or tears in the esophageal lining (Mallory-Weiss tears).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Endoscopy (gold standard), blood tests (CBC, coagulation profile), nasogastric lavage, imaging (if needed).
Treatment:
Resuscitation with fluids/blood products, endoscopic interventions (e.g., banding, sclerotherapy), pharmacologic therapy to reduce bleeding, and surgical interventions in refractory cases.
Medications:
Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., pantoprazole ) to reduce stomach acid; octreotide or vasopressin for variceal bleeding; antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone ) in variceal bleeding to prevent infections; hemostatic agents such as tranexamic acid (if indicated).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 50-150 cases per 100,000 people annually; more common in older adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Helicobacter pylori infection, NSAID use, alcohol abuse, liver cirrhosis, anticoagulant or antiplatelet use, smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies depending on the cause and severity; high success rate with early intervention but increased mortality in severe cases or with comorbidities.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypovolemic shock, rebleeding, aspiration, multiorgan failure, death.
Lower GI Bleed (e.g., Diverticular Bleeding)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Gastrointestinal Bleeding
Symptoms:
hematochezia (bright red or maroon-colored blood in stool); lightheadedness; abdominal discomfort; fatigue; shock in severe cases
Root Cause:
Bleeding originating from the lower gastrointestinal tract, commonly due to diverticulosis, angiodysplasia, or colorectal cancer.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Colonoscopy (gold standard), blood tests (CBC, coagulation profile), imaging (e.g., CT angiography), tagged red blood cell scan.
Treatment:
Resuscitation with fluids/blood products, endoscopic or angiographic interventions (e.g., cauterization or embolization), surgical intervention for refractory cases.
Medications:
Hemostatic agents (e.g., tranexamic acid) for active bleeding; iron supplements for anemia post-resolution; prophylactic antibiotics in suspected infections.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incidence ranges from 20-30 cases per 100,000 annually, increasing with age.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic constipation, NSAID or anticoagulant use, history of diverticulosis or angiodysplasia, smoking.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good prognosis with appropriate management; recurrence is common in diverticular bleeding.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypovolemic shock, recurrent bleeding, anemia, death in severe untreated cases.
Hernias (Incarcerated, Strangulated)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Other GI Conditions
Symptoms:
localized pain or tenderness at the hernia site; nausea; vomiting; abdominal distension; redness or discoloration over the hernia; inability to pass stool or gas
Root Cause:
A portion of an organ, typically the intestine, becomes trapped in the hernia sac, compromising blood flow (strangulated) or causing obstruction without blood flow compromise (incarcerated).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scan, and observation of symptoms like persistent pain and obstruction signs.
Treatment:
Emergent surgical intervention to release the trapped organ and repair the hernia; in severe cases, resection of necrotic tissue may be required.
Medications:
Pain management with opioids or NSAIDs, and prophylactic antibiotics like cefazolin (a first-generation cephalosporin) to reduce infection risk.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Incarcerated hernias are relatively common, with about 10-15% of hernias progressing to incarceration; strangulated hernias occur in approximately 1-3% of cases.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Older age, male gender, obesity, chronic coughing or straining, history of previous hernias, heavy lifting.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely surgical intervention; delayed treatment can lead to bowel necrosis, sepsis, and increased mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel obstruction, ischemia, necrosis, perforation, and sepsis.
Mesenteric Ischemia
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Vascular GI Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden severe abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; blood in stool; abdominal distension
Root Cause:
Reduced or completely obstructed blood flow to the intestines due to arterial embolism, arterial thrombosis, or venous thrombosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history and physical exam, blood tests (elevated lactate levels), imaging studies (CT angiography is the gold standard).
Treatment:
Immediate resuscitation, anticoagulation (e.g., heparin), thrombolysis, and surgical intervention to remove occlusion or resect necrotic bowel.
Medications:
Anticoagulants like heparin (unfractionated or low-molecular-weight), thrombolytics like alteplase (tissue plasminogen activator), and vasodilators like papaverine (to improve blood flow).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but life-threatening, affecting approximately 0.1-0.2% of hospital admissions; more common in elderly individuals.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Atrial fibrillation, heart failure, atherosclerosis, recent abdominal surgery, hypercoagulable states.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Poor if not treated promptly; mortality rates can exceed 70% for acute cases with bowel necrosis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bowel infarction, perforation, sepsis, multi-organ failure.
Severe Gastroenteritis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Gastrointestinal Emergencies
Sub-category: Infectious GI Conditions
Symptoms:
profuse diarrhea; vomiting; severe dehydration; abdominal cramping; fever; bloody stools (in some cases)
Root Cause:
Inflammation of the stomach and intestines caused by bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections, leading to fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, stool tests (for pathogens), blood tests (to assess dehydration and electrolyte levels).
Treatment:
Rehydration with intravenous fluids, electrolyte replacement, and antimicrobial therapy if indicated.
Medications:
Oral rehydration salts (ORS), IV fluids (crystalloids like normal saline), antibiotics such as ciprofloxacin or azithromycin (for bacterial infections), and antiemetics like ondansetron .
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A leading cause of morbidity globally, with higher prevalence in developing countries; severe cases are less common but can be life-threatening, especially in children and the elderly.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor sanitation, contaminated food or water, travel to endemic regions, immunosuppression.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with adequate hydration and timely treatment; delayed or inadequate treatment can lead to severe complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, kidney failure, sepsis, death in extreme cases.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Diabetes-Related Emergencies
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; rapid breathing; fruity-scented breath; confusion; excessive thirst; frequent urination
Root Cause:
DKA occurs due to insufficient insulin, leading to uncontrolled hyperglycemia, ketone production, and metabolic acidosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, laboratory tests showing hyperglycemia (blood glucose >250 mg/dL), ketonemia, ketonuria, low bicarbonate levels (<18 mEq/L), and an elevated anion gap metabolic acidosis.
Treatment:
Immediate fluid resuscitation (IV fluids), insulin therapy, electrolyte replacement (especially potassium), and addressing precipitating factors (e.g., infections).
Medications:
Regular insulin (short-acting insulin for IV infusion to lower blood glucose and suppress ketone production), potassium supplements (for electrolyte correction), bicarbonate (in severe acidosis cases, though used cautiously).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in individuals with type 1 diabetes and occasionally in type 2 diabetes under stress or illness.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor diabetes management, infections, physical or emotional stress, skipping insulin doses, undiagnosed diabetes.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Favorable if treated promptly; mortality is low with appropriate intervention but rises if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cerebral edema (especially in children), hypokalemia, cardiac arrhythmias, hypoglycemia, and multi-organ failure in severe cases.
Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Diabetes-Related Emergencies
Symptoms:
severe hyperglycemia; extreme dehydration; altered mental status; weakness; seizures; coma
Root Cause:
Profound hyperglycemia (glucose >600 mg/dL) leads to severe osmotic diuresis and dehydration without significant ketone production.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Laboratory findings of extreme hyperglycemia (>600 mg/dL), elevated serum osmolality (>320 mOsm/kg), normal or slightly elevated bicarbonate, and minimal or absent ketones.
Treatment:
Aggressive IV fluid replacement, insulin therapy to gradually reduce blood glucose, and addressing precipitating factors. Electrolyte monitoring and correction are also essential.
Medications:
Regular insulin (to lower glucose), electrolyte replacement solutions (potassium, magnesium, phosphate), and anticoagulants (e.g., heparin in immobile patients to prevent thrombosis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in older adults with type 2 diabetes, often triggered by infection, stroke, or myocardial infarction.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, type 2 diabetes, dehydration, infections, poor diabetes management, use of glucocorticoids or diuretics.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be life-threatening without prompt treatment; mortality rates are higher than DKA but decrease significantly with proper care.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Thrombosis, seizures, cerebral edema, acute kidney injury, and respiratory distress.
Severe hypoglycemia
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Diabetes-Related Emergencies
Symptoms:
shakiness; sweating; palpitations; confusion; irritability; seizures; loss of consciousness; coma
Root Cause:
Blood glucose levels drop dangerously low (<54 mg/dL) due to excess insulin, inadequate food intake, or increased physical activity.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Confirmed by measuring blood glucose (<70 mg/dL, with severe symptoms typically at <54 mg/dL) and rapid resolution of symptoms after glucose administration.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of glucose (oral if conscious, IV dextrose if unconscious), glucagon injection for emergencies, and addressing underlying causes.
Medications:
Dextrose (IV infusion to rapidly raise blood glucose), glucagon (injectable for emergency situations), and long-term adjustments to insulin regimens or oral diabetes medications.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Frequent in individuals with diabetes on insulin or sulfonylureas, especially in those with tight glucose control.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Insulin or sulfonylurea use, skipping meals, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged fasting, or physical exertion.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Recovery is rapid with appropriate treatment; recurrent episodes can lead to impaired awareness of hypoglycemia.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Seizures, loss of consciousness, brain damage from prolonged severe hypoglycemia, and potential cardiovascular events.
Thyroid Storm
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Thyroid Conditions
Symptoms:
high fever; rapid heart rate (tachycardia); extreme irritability or agitation; confusion or delirium; profuse sweating; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; heart failure symptoms (chest pain, shortness of breath); goiter
Root Cause:
Excessive release of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) leading to a hypermetabolic state, often triggered by infection, trauma, surgery, or discontinuation of antithyroid medications in patients with hyperthyroidism.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation supported by laboratory findings of extremely elevated free T3 and T4 levels, suppressed TSH levels, and systemic organ dysfunction. Other tests may include CBC, liver enzymes, and imaging (to rule out precipitating factors).
Treatment:
Aggressive supportive care, cooling measures for hyperthermia, hydration, electrolyte correction, beta-blockers to control heart rate, antithyroid drugs, iodine to block thyroid hormone release, and corticosteroids to reduce peripheral conversion of T4 to T3.
Medications:
Antithyroid drugs
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but life-threatening; typically occurs in patients with untreated or poorly managed hyperthyroidism.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Graves’ disease, toxic multinodular goiter, thyroid surgery, infection, trauma, pregnancy, discontinuation of antithyroid drugs, or iodine contrast administration.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality rate (up to 20-30%) if untreated; early and aggressive treatment significantly improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, arrhythmias (e.g., atrial fibrillation), shock, multi-organ failure, and death.
Myxedema Coma
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Thyroid Conditions
Symptoms:
severe hypothermia; altered mental status or coma; bradycardia; hypotension; hypoventilation; dry skin; swelling (non-pitting edema); hoarseness; pericardial or pleural effusion; constipation; cold intolerance
Root Cause:
Severe hypothyroidism leading to life-threatening metabolic and organ dysfunction, often triggered by infection, cold exposure, trauma, or medications.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation with supportive findings of extremely low free T3 and T4 levels, elevated TSH (primary hypothyroidism) or low TSH (central hypothyroidism), hyponatremia, hypoglycemia, and signs of hypoxemia or hypercapnia on blood gases.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of thyroid hormone replacement (IV levothyroxine or liothyronine), supportive measures (warming for hypothermia, mechanical ventilation if needed), treatment of underlying causes, and corticosteroids if adrenal insufficiency is suspected.
Medications:
Thyroid hormone replacement
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; more common in elderly women with long-standing untreated hypothyroidism.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-standing untreated hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, cold exposure, infections, sedatives, trauma, or certain medications (e.g., amiodarone).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
High mortality rate (30-60%) if untreated; rapid intervention significantly reduces mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, sepsis, ileus, pericardial effusion, cardiogenic shock, and death.
Severe Dehydration
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Emergencies
Sub-category: Fluid and Volume Imbalances
Symptoms:
extreme thirst; dry mucous membranes; sunken eyes; tachycardia; hypotension; reduced urine output; confusion; lethargy
Root Cause:
Excessive fluid loss or inadequate intake leading to significant extracellular volume depletion and impaired organ perfusion.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment (skin turgor, mucous membranes), blood tests (elevated hematocrit, blood urea nitrogen), and urine tests (concentrated urine, high specific gravity).
Treatment:
Rapid fluid resuscitation with isotonic crystalloids (e.g., normal saline or lactated Ringer's), correction of electrolyte imbalances, and treatment of underlying cause.
Medications:
IV fluids (normal saline or lactated Ringer's); electrolyte replacement as needed (potassium, magnesium, or sodium bicarbonate).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common globally, particularly in cases of severe diarrhea, vomiting, or heat exposure.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diarrhea, vomiting, burns, excessive sweating, and diuretic use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment; delayed treatment can lead to shock and multi-organ failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypovolemic shock, acute kidney injury, and electrolyte disturbances.
Uremia
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Renal Failure Complications
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; loss of appetite; fatigue; confusion; seizures; muscle cramps; itching; fluid retention; shortness of breath; high blood pressure; altered mental status
Root Cause:
Accumulation of urea and other nitrogenous waste products in the blood due to impaired kidney function. This condition arises from chronic or acute renal failure, leading to toxic effects on multiple organ systems.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests showing elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic acidosis; urinalysis may indicate proteinuria or hematuria; imaging (ultrasound or CT) may show kidney abnormalities. Clinical symptoms and history are also critical.
Treatment:
Emergency treatment includes dialysis (hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis) to remove waste products and restore electrolyte balance. Supportive care includes addressing fluid overload and managing complications such as hypertension and metabolic acidosis.
Medications:
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide )
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals with advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) or acute kidney injury (AKI); incidence rises in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic kidney disease, acute kidney injury, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, advanced age, polycystic kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders affecting the kidneys (e.g., lupus nephritis).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely dialysis and treatment, symptoms can be managed effectively; however, the underlying renal disease usually remains progressive without a transplant. Untreated uremia is life-threatening.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrhythmias, pericarditis, seizures, encephalopathy, fluid overload, and death if untreated.
Severe Electrolyte Imbalances
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Electrolyte Disorders
Symptoms:
muscle weakness; cramps; nausea; confusion; seizures; cardiac arrhythmias; paralysis; fatigue; tetany; altered mental status
Root Cause:
Abnormal levels of critical electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphate in the blood, resulting from renal dysfunction, medications, endocrine disorders, or fluid imbalance.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for electrolyte levels, arterial blood gas analysis for acid-base status, and ECG to detect arrhythmias. History and clinical examination are also key.
Treatment:
Depends on the specific electrolyte imbalance
Medications:
Calcium supplements (e.g., calcium gluconate)
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in hospitalized patients, particularly those with kidney disease, heart failure, or endocrine disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic kidney disease, diuretics, excessive fluid loss, endocrine disorders (e.g., diabetes insipidus, SIADH), and critical illnesses.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt recognition and treatment, outcomes are typically favorable; however, severe imbalances can cause life-threatening complications if untreated.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiac arrest, respiratory failure, seizures, neuromuscular dysfunction, and multi-organ failure.
Urinary Retention
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Urologic Conditions
Symptoms:
inability to urinate; lower abdominal pain or discomfort; weak or dribbling urine stream; frequent urination with small amounts; bladder distension
Root Cause:
Blockage or dysfunction of the urinary tract or bladder, often due to enlarged prostate, strictures, neurogenic bladder, or medications affecting bladder tone.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical exam (e.g., palpation of bladder), bladder ultrasound to detect residual urine, urinalysis, and possibly imaging (CT or MRI) to identify obstruction.
Treatment:
Immediate catheterization to relieve retention, addressing underlying causes (e.g., prostate surgery, dilation of strictures), and medications to manage chronic issues.
Medications:
Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin or alfuzosin ) to relax the bladder neck and prostate; 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride or dutasteride ) for chronic prostate enlargement.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in older adults, particularly men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); also occurs in individuals with neurologic conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Male gender, older age, BPH, pelvic surgery, neurologic disorders, and certain medications (e.g., antihistamines, decongestants).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely treatment, though recurrent episodes may require long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Bladder damage, recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney damage (hydronephrosis) if untreated.
Obstructive Uropathy (e.g., Kidney Stones)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Urologic Conditions
Symptoms:
severe flank pain; hematuria (blood in urine); nausea and vomiting; frequent or painful urination; fever or chills if infection is present
Root Cause:
Blockage of urine flow from the kidney due to stones in the ureter, bladder, or kidney, leading to pressure and potential kidney damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Urinalysis for blood or infection, non-contrast CT scan (gold standard), ultrasound, or plain X-ray (KUB) to detect stones.
Treatment:
Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) or opioids; hydration to aid stone passage; surgical removal via ureteroscopy, lithotripsy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy for larger stones.
Medications:
Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin ) to facilitate stone passage; antibiotics if infection is present (e.g., ciprofloxacin or ceftriaxone ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of the population globally; higher incidence in men and individuals aged 30–60 years.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Dehydration, high salt/protein diet, family history, obesity, and metabolic disorders like hypercalcemia or gout.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent if treated; untreated cases risk hydronephrosis, infection, or kidney damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent stones, urinary tract infections, and kidney failure in severe or neglected cases.
Testicular Torsion
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Urologic Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden, severe testicular pain; swelling in the scrotum; abdominal pain; nausea and vomiting; high-riding testicle
Root Cause:
Twisting of the spermatic cord, cutting off blood supply to the testicle, often due to inadequate fixation of the testicle in the scrotum.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical exam (e.g., absence of cremasteric reflex), scrotal ultrasound with Doppler for blood flow assessment, and surgical exploration.
Treatment:
Immediate surgical detorsion and fixation (orchidopexy); removal (orchiectomy) if testicle is nonviable.
Medications:
Pain management (e.g., NSAIDs or acetaminophen ); antibiotics if infection coexists but typically not primary treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Most common in males aged 12–18 but can occur at any age, including neonates.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Bell-clapper deformity, trauma, or sudden testicular movement.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent if treated within 6 hours; testicular viability decreases significantly after 12 hours.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Testicular necrosis, infertility, and psychological distress.
Priapism
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Renal and Urologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Urologic Conditions
Symptoms:
prolonged and painful erection; rigid penile shaft with soft glans; discoloration of penis (in ischemic cases); urinary retention or dysuria
Root Cause:
Blood trapping in the penile corpora cavernosa (ischemic) or excessive arterial inflow without venous drainage (non-ischemic).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History and physical exam, penile blood gas analysis (ischemic vs. non-ischemic), and Doppler ultrasound.
Treatment:
Ischemic
Medications:
Phenylephrine (alpha-adrenergic agonist) for ischemic priapism; analgesics (e.g., NSAIDs or opioids) for pain.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; ischemic priapism is more common and considered a urologic emergency.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Sickle cell disease, medications (e.g., PDE5 inhibitors, antipsychotics), trauma, or spinal cord injury.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; delayed management risks permanent erectile dysfunction.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Penile fibrosis, erectile dysfunction, and infection.
Sepsis and Septic Shock
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; rapid heart rate; rapid breathing or difficulty breathing; confusion or altered mental state; low blood pressure; chills; reduced urine output; discolored or mottled skin
Root Cause:
A systemic inflammatory response caused by an infection that triggers widespread immune activation, leading to tissue damage, organ failure, and, in severe cases, septic shock characterized by dangerously low blood pressure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, blood cultures, imaging studies (e.g., X-rays, CT scans), complete blood count (CBC), lactate levels, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin levels. Diagnosed based on the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, vasopressors for shock, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU). Source control (e.g., surgical removal of infected tissues or drainage of abscess) may be necessary.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (beta-lactam), meropenem (carbapenem), or vancomycin (glycopeptide) are used to target the underlying infection. Vasopressors like norepinephrine (sympathomimetic) are used to maintain blood pressure. Corticosteroids like hydrocortisone may be used in refractory septic shock.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sepsis affects an estimated 48.9 million people annually worldwide, leading to 11 million deaths. It is more common in hospitalized patients, especially in intensive care units.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, kidney disease), immunosuppression, recent surgery, invasive devices (e.g., catheters, ventilators), and severe infections (e.g., pneumonia, urinary tract infections).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis varies; early recognition and treatment improve survival rates. Mortality rates for sepsis range from 10% to 40%, while septic shock has a higher mortality rate of 30% to 50%. Survivors may experience long-term complications or reduced quality of life.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), kidney failure, and long-term cognitive and physical impairments in survivors.
Necrotizing Fasciitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
severe pain at the site of infection; rapidly spreading redness and swelling; skin discoloration; blistering; fever; chills; fatigue; low blood pressure; sepsis
Root Cause:
Rapidly progressing bacterial infection caused by bacteria such as Group A Streptococcus, Clostridium, or Vibrio vulnificus, which destroys soft tissues and fascia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, imaging studies (MRI or CT), blood tests indicating infection, and surgical exploration for definitive diagnosis.
Treatment:
Immediate surgical debridement to remove dead tissue, aggressive antibiotic therapy, and supportive care in an intensive care unit (ICU).
Medications:
Broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics such as piperacillin-tazobactam (a beta-lactam), clindamycin (a lincosamide), and vancomycin (a glycopeptide) to cover multiple pathogens.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 0.4 cases per 100,000 people annually in developed countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
diabetes; immunosuppression; recent surgery; trauma; intravenous drug use; peripheral vascular disease
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mortality rate is 20-40%, depending on the speed of diagnosis and treatment. Early intervention significantly improves outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, organ failure, amputation, and death.
Abscesses
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
Symptoms:
localized swelling; redness; pain or tenderness; warmth; pus drainage; fever (in severe cases); fluctuant mass under the skin
Root Cause:
Localized bacterial infection leading to the formation of a pus-filled cavity, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant strains).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, ultrasound imaging for deep abscesses, and sometimes culture of pus to identify bacteria and guide antibiotic therapy.
Treatment:
Incision and drainage (I&D) of the abscess is the primary treatment, with antibiotics prescribed in cases of severe infection or systemic involvement.
Medications:
Oral antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (a sulfonamide), doxycycline (a tetracycline ), or clindamycin (a lincosamide), particularly for MRSA coverage.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; skin abscesses account for a significant proportion of emergency department visits related to skin infections.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
poor hygiene; skin trauma; immunosuppression; diabetes; chronic skin conditions such as eczema or acne
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with proper treatment, though recurrence can occur, especially without addressing underlying risk factors.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cellulitis, bacteremia, sepsis, and scarring.
Toxic Shock Syndrome
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Other Infectious Emergencies
Symptoms:
sudden high fever; low blood pressure; vomiting; diarrhea; rash resembling sunburn; confusion; seizures; muscle aches; redness of eyes, throat, and mouth; organ failure
Root Cause:
Caused by toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, often associated with tampon use, wound infections, or surgical procedures.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, blood cultures, and other laboratory tests to identify the bacterial toxin.
Treatment:
Immediate hospitalization, intravenous fluids to maintain blood pressure, antibiotics to target bacteria, and management of organ dysfunction.
Medications:
Intravenous antibiotics such as clindamycin and vancomycin (antibacterials). IV immunoglobulins may also be used to neutralize toxins.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, with an incidence of approximately 1–2 cases per 100,000 population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged tampon use, post-surgical infections, open wounds, childbirth, or nasal packing.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt treatment; however, untreated cases can be fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Shock, organ failure, amputations due to necrosis, and death.
Bacterial Endocarditis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Cardiovascular Infections
Symptoms:
fever; heart murmur; fatigue; night sweats; unexplained weight loss; skin lesions on hands or feet (janeway lesions); painful nodules (osler's nodes); shortness of breath; swelling in legs or abdomen
Root Cause:
Infection of the heart's inner lining or valves caused by bacteria, commonly Streptococcus or Staphylococcus species, entering the bloodstream.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, echocardiogram, and clinical evaluation of symptoms.
Treatment:
Long-term intravenous antibiotics and sometimes surgical valve repair or replacement.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as vancomycin or ceftriaxone (antibacterials), depending on the causative organism and susceptibility.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3–10 cases per 100,000 population annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prosthetic heart valves, previous endocarditis, congenital heart defects, intravenous drug use, and invasive dental or medical procedures.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; good with early treatment but high risk of complications if delayed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart failure, stroke, septic emboli, and valve damage.
Acute Osteomyelitis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Infectious Diseases
Sub-category: Bone and Joint Infections
Symptoms:
bone pain; fever; swelling; redness over affected area; reduced range of motion; general malaise
Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the bone, often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, spreading through the bloodstream or direct inoculation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood cultures, imaging studies (X-rays, MRI, or CT), and sometimes bone biopsy.
Treatment:
Intravenous antibiotics, immobilization of the affected limb, and sometimes surgical debridement.
Medications:
Antibiotics such as cefazolin , clindamycin , or vancomycin (antibacterials) tailored to the causative organism.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Varies; more common in children and individuals with trauma or immunocompromising conditions.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recent bone trauma, surgery, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, and intravenous drug use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment but risk of chronic osteomyelitis if delayed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic infection, bone necrosis, sepsis, and reduced mobility.
Sickle Cell Crisis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Blood Disorders
Symptoms:
severe pain in the chest, abdomen, or joints; shortness of breath; fatigue; fever; swelling in hands and feet; jaundice or pale skin
Root Cause:
Blockage of small blood vessels due to the abnormal, sickle-shaped red blood cells leading to ischemia and inflammation.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of sickle cell disease, physical exam, complete blood count (CBC), reticulocyte count, hemoglobin electrophoresis, and imaging (if complications are suspected).
Treatment:
Pain management with opioids or NSAIDs, hydration (IV fluids), oxygen therapy (if hypoxic), and treatment of any underlying or associated infections. Severe cases may require blood transfusions.
Medications:
Pain is often managed with opioids (e.g., morphine , hydromorphone ) and NSAIDs (e.g., ketorolac ). Hydroxyurea , an antimetabolite, is used to reduce the frequency of crises. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infections (e.g., ceftriaxone for pneumonia).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 300,000 newborns globally each year, with higher prevalence in individuals of African, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and Indian descent.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inherited condition, family history of sickle cell disease, and environmental triggers such as dehydration, extreme temperatures, and infections.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, most patients live into their 40s–60s; complications can reduce life expectancy.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute chest syndrome, stroke, organ damage (kidneys, spleen), infections, and chronic pain.
Hemophilia-Related Bleeding
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Blood Disorders
Symptoms:
uncontrolled or prolonged bleeding; easy bruising; joint pain and swelling; blood in urine or stool; nosebleeds; intracranial hemorrhage in severe cases
Root Cause:
Deficiency or dysfunction of clotting factors (Factor VIII in hemophilia A or Factor IX in hemophilia B), leading to impaired blood clotting.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Family history, coagulation tests (e.g., activated partial thromboplastin time [aPTT], factor activity levels), and genetic testing.
Treatment:
Replacement therapy with clotting factors (Factor VIII or IX), antifibrinolytics (e.g., tranexamic acid), and recombinant factor products. Severe bleeding may require emergency intervention and imaging to assess complications.
Medications:
Clotting factor concentrates (recombinant or plasma-derived Factor VIII/IX) are essential. Antifibrinolytics like tranexamic acid or aminocaproic acid may be used adjunctively. Desmopressin (a synthetic hormone) is used in mild cases of hemophilia A.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Hemophilia affects approximately 1 in 5,000 male births for hemophilia A and 1 in 20,000 for hemophilia B.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Inherited X-linked disorder; primarily affects males. Family history is the primary risk factor.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, individuals can live a normal lifespan, though complications such as joint damage and inhibitor development can occur.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Joint damage (hemophilic arthropathy), intracranial hemorrhage, excessive bleeding after surgeries or injuries, and inhibitor development against replacement therapy.
Spinal Cord Compression from Malignancy
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Hematologic and Oncologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Oncologic Conditions
Symptoms:
back pain; numbness; weakness in the limbs; loss of bowel or bladder control; difficulty walking
Root Cause:
Direct tumor invasion or vertebral metastases compressing the spinal cord or cauda equina.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
MRI of the spine is the gold standard; clinical examination and sometimes CT scans.
Treatment:
High-dose corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone) to reduce inflammation, urgent radiation therapy, surgical decompression if indicated.
Medications:
Dexamethasone (corticosteroid to reduce swelling), analgesics (for pain control), bisphosphonates (e.g., zoledronic acid for bone metastases).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 5-10% of cancer patients, particularly those with lung, breast, prostate cancers, or lymphoma.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced cancer with metastases, history of vertebral fractures, rapidly progressing malignancies.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early treatment can preserve neurologic function; delayed intervention increases risk of permanent paralysis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent paralysis, intractable pain, loss of bowel/bladder function, decreased quality of life.
Opioid toxicity (e.g., heroin, fentanyl)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Drug Overdoses
Symptoms:
respiratory depression; pinpoint pupils; unconsciousness; hypotension; cyanosis; bradycardia
Root Cause:
Opioids bind excessively to mu-opioid receptors, leading to respiratory and central nervous system depression.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical history, physical examination, and response to naloxone. Supporting tests include toxicology screens and arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis for respiratory acidosis.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of naloxone (opioid antagonist), airway management, oxygen supplementation, and supportive care in a monitored setting.
Medications:
Naloxone , an opioid antagonist, reverses respiratory and CNS depression by displacing opioids from receptors.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
High prevalence in areas with widespread opioid use; opioid-related deaths account for a significant proportion of drug overdose fatalities globally.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Substance use disorder, high-dose opioid prescriptions, concurrent sedative use, mental health disorders, and lack of access to treatment or naloxone.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis is good if treated promptly with naloxone; delays in treatment can lead to hypoxic brain injury or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxic brain injury, aspiration pneumonia, rhabdomyolysis, and death.
Acetaminophen overdose
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Drug Overdoses
Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; confusion; jaundice (late stage); elevated liver enzymes
Root Cause:
Excessive acetaminophen overwhelms the liver's ability to conjugate and detoxify NAPQI (toxic metabolite), causing hepatocellular damage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of overdose, serum acetaminophen levels, and liver function tests (LFTs); use of the Rumack-Matthew nomogram for risk assessment.
Treatment:
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) administration (oral or IV) to replenish glutathione, activated charcoal if within 1-2 hours of ingestion, and supportive care.
Medications:
N-acetylcysteine (antidote for acetaminophen toxicity) and activated charcoal (gastric decontaminant).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Acetaminophen toxicity is one of the most common causes of drug overdoses globally and a leading cause of acute liver failure in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Chronic acetaminophen use, concurrent alcohol consumption, pre-existing liver disease, and taking higher-than-recommended doses.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; delayed treatment increases the risk of liver failure, necessitating a liver transplant.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Acute liver failure, metabolic acidosis, encephalopathy, and death.
Benzodiazepine overdose
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Drug Overdoses
Symptoms:
drowsiness; slurred speech; confusion; hypotension; respiratory depression (rare if taken alone); ataxia
Root Cause:
Excessive potentiation of GABA-A receptors leads to central nervous system depression.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
History of overdose, clinical presentation, and urine toxicology testing.
Treatment:
Supportive care (airway management, IV fluids), flumazenil (benzodiazepine receptor antagonist) in selective cases, and monitoring for respiratory depression.
Medications:
Flumazenil , a benzodiazepine receptor antagonist, used cautiously due to the risk of seizures in chronic users.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common due to the widespread prescription and misuse of benzodiazepines; often co-ingested with other substances like alcohol or opioids.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Polypharmacy, substance use disorder, underlying mental health issues, and unsupervised access to medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good if treated promptly; co-ingestion with other CNS depressants worsens outcomes.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, coma, aspiration pneumonia, and death.
Alcohol poisoning
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Substance Abuse
Symptoms:
confusion; vomiting; hypothermia; seizures; slow or irregular breathing; unconsciousness
Root Cause:
Excessive ethanol consumption depresses the central nervous system, impairs respiratory function, and leads to metabolic acidosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation, serum ethanol levels, and assessment for metabolic derangements (ABG, electrolyte panel).
Treatment:
Airway protection, intravenous fluids, thiamine and glucose supplementation, and monitoring in an intensive care setting.
Medications:
Thiamine (to prevent Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome) and glucose (to address hypoglycemia). No direct antidote for ethanol toxicity.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Alcohol poisoning is a frequent emergency, especially among binge drinkers; accounts for thousands of deaths annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Binge drinking, alcohol use disorder, low body weight, and concurrent use of sedatives or opioids.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early intervention; severe cases can result in brain damage or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoglycemia, hypothermia, aspiration, respiratory depression, and death.
Stimulant toxicity (e.g., cocaine, methamphetamine)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Drug Overdoses
Symptoms:
tachycardia; hypertension; agitation; seizures; chest pain; hyperthermia
Root Cause:
Excessive stimulation of the central and sympathetic nervous systems due to increased dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, urine toxicology, and supporting tests like ECG and serum chemistry.
Treatment:
Benzodiazepines for sedation and seizure control, cooling measures for hyperthermia, IV fluids, and supportive care for cardiovascular effects.
Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam or diazepam ) for agitation and seizures; beta-blockers are avoided due to unopposed alpha-adrenergic stimulation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Cocaine and methamphetamine toxicity is prevalent among recreational users; associated with a high burden of emergency visits.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Recreational drug use, poly-drug abuse, and underlying cardiovascular conditions.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; mild cases resolve with supportive care, but severe cases with complications like stroke or cardiac arrest can be fatal.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, myocardial infarction, rhabdomyolysis, hyperthermia, and sudden death.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Chemical Exposures
Symptoms:
headache; dizziness; nausea; shortness of breath; confusion; loss of consciousness; chest pain; seizures
Root Cause:
Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin with a higher affinity than oxygen, reducing oxygen delivery to tissues and causing hypoxia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Measurement of carboxyhemoglobin levels in blood using co-oximetry, pulse CO-oximeter, or arterial blood gas analysis. Symptoms and exposure history also aid diagnosis.
Treatment:
Immediate removal from the CO exposure source, 100% oxygen therapy through a non-rebreather mask, or hyperbaric oxygen therapy in severe cases.
Medications:
No direct medications, but 100% oxygen therapy and hyperbaric oxygen are the main treatments. Hyperbaric oxygen is classified as a high-pressure oxygen delivery treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A leading cause of poisoning-related deaths worldwide, with an estimated 50,000 emergency department visits annually in the U.S.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poorly ventilated spaces, faulty heating systems, exposure to fires, and use of charcoal or gas grills indoors.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with timely treatment; delayed or severe exposure may lead to long-term neurological complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Neurological sequelae (e.g., memory loss, difficulty concentrating), myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and death.
Cyanide Poisoning
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Chemical Exposures
Symptoms:
shortness of breath; confusion; headache; nausea; seizures; loss of consciousness; cardiac arrest
Root Cause:
Cyanide inhibits cytochrome oxidase in mitochondria, blocking cellular respiration and leading to rapid tissue hypoxia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical suspicion based on exposure history, measurement of cyanide levels in blood, arterial blood gas showing metabolic acidosis with high lactate.
Treatment:
Administration of specific antidotes (e.g., hydroxocobalamin, sodium thiosulfate) and supportive care, including oxygen therapy and mechanical ventilation if needed.
Medications:
Hydroxocobalamin (binds cyanide to form cyanocobalamin , excreted in urine), Sodium thiosulfate (enhances cyanide metabolism to thiocyanate), and Nitrites (to induce methemoglobin formation, binding cyanide). These are classified as antidotes.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare in the general population but associated with industrial exposures, smoke inhalation from fires, and deliberate ingestion.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Exposure to industrial chemicals, smoke inhalation from fires, ingestion of cyanogenic compounds (e.g., amygdalin in apricot seeds).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early and appropriate treatment; poor prognosis in delayed or severe cases without intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxic brain injury, multi-organ failure, and death.
Organophosphate Poisoning
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Chemical Exposures
Symptoms:
salivation; lacrimation; urination; diarrhea; gastrointestinal cramping; emesis; muscle weakness; seizures; respiratory distress
Root Cause:
Inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, leading to accumulation of acetylcholine and overstimulation of cholinergic receptors in the nervous system.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation of cholinergic symptoms, history of exposure to pesticides or organophosphates, low cholinesterase activity in plasma or red blood cells.
Treatment:
Atropine (to counteract muscarinic symptoms), pralidoxime (to regenerate acetylcholinesterase), decontamination (e.g., removal of contaminated clothing, washing skin), and supportive care (e.g., oxygen, mechanical ventilation).
Medications:
Atropine (antimuscarinic agent to reduce secretions and reverse bradycardia), Pralidoxime (AChE reactivator), Diazepam (for seizures).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in agricultural settings; worldwide, organophosphate poisoning accounts for thousands of deaths annually, particularly in developing countries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Agricultural workers, accidental exposure, and intentional ingestion in cases of self-harm.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; excellent with prompt treatment, but delayed treatment can lead to respiratory failure and death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, seizures, long-term neurological sequelae, and death.
Snake Bites
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Envenomations
Symptoms:
localized pain and swelling; redness; bruising; nausea; vomiting; difficulty breathing; altered mental status; bleeding disorders; paralysis
Root Cause:
Snake venom contains a mixture of proteins, enzymes, and toxins that disrupt blood coagulation, damage tissues, and interfere with the nervous system or cardiovascular function.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, observation of bite marks, identification of the snake (if possible), blood tests for coagulation disorders, and monitoring for systemic effects.
Treatment:
Antivenom administration specific to the snake species, wound care, supportive care (e.g., IV fluids, oxygen), and monitoring for complications.
Medications:
Antivenom
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Estimated 5.4 million bites occur worldwide annually, with approximately 2.7 million envenomations and 81,000–138,000 deaths.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Outdoor activities in snake habitats, lack of protective footwear, delayed medical care, and inadequate access to antivenom.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated promptly with appropriate antivenom; delayed treatment increases the risk of permanent damage or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Tissue necrosis, compartment syndrome, coagulopathy, renal failure, and systemic shock.
Spider Bites - Black Widow
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Envenomations
Symptoms:
severe muscle cramps; abdominal pain; sweating; high blood pressure; restlessness
Root Cause:
Spider venom contains toxins that affect the nervous system (black widow) or cause local tissue destruction and systemic inflammation (brown recluse).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, observation of the bite area, identification of the spider (if possible), and symptom correlation.
Treatment:
Wound care, supportive care, muscle relaxants for black widow bites, and possibly antivenom. Surgical debridement may be needed for necrotic wounds.
Medications:
Antivenom
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence unknown; bites are more common in specific geographic areas where these spiders are endemic.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Working in or near woodpiles, attics, or basements; outdoor activities; handling debris.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically good with prompt treatment; severe complications are rare but may include long-term tissue damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic toxicity (black widow), extensive necrosis (brown recluse), secondary infections.
Spider Bites - Brown Recluse
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Envenomations
Symptoms:
localized pain and redness; necrotic skin lesions; fever; chills; malaise
Root Cause:
Spider venom contains toxins that affect the nervous system (black widow) or cause local tissue destruction and systemic inflammation (brown recluse).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, observation of the bite area, identification of the spider (if possible), and symptom correlation.
Treatment:
Wound care, supportive care, muscle relaxants for black widow bites, and possibly antivenom. Surgical debridement may be needed for necrotic wounds.
Medications:
Antivenom
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence unknown; bites are more common in specific geographic areas where these spiders are endemic.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Working in or near woodpiles, attics, or basements; outdoor activities; handling debris.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Typically good with prompt treatment; severe complications are rare but may include long-term tissue damage.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Systemic toxicity (black widow), extensive necrosis (brown recluse), secondary infections.
Marine Envenomations (e.g., Jellyfish, Stingrays)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Toxicology and Overdose
Sub-category: Envenomations
Symptoms:
localized pain; burning or stinging sensation; redness and swelling; nausea; vomiting; difficulty breathing; muscle cramps; cardiac symptoms in severe cases
Root Cause:
Toxins from marine animals cause local or systemic effects, including tissue damage, allergic reactions, and cardiovascular disturbances.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, observation of sting site, identification of the marine animal, and symptom assessment.
Treatment:
Removal of stingers or spines, rinsing with vinegar or hot water, pain management, and supportive care. Antivenom may be used for specific stings (e.g., box jellyfish).
Medications:
Pain Relievers
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in coastal regions; thousands of cases occur annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Swimming or diving in marine environments, inadequate protective measures (e.g., wetsuits).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with appropriate treatment; severe cases (e.g., box jellyfish stings) require prompt intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe allergic reactions, tissue necrosis, infection, and cardiac arrest in rare cases.
Suicidal Ideation and Attempts
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies
Sub-category: Acute Psychiatric Crises
Symptoms:
expressions of wanting to die or kill oneself; planning or attempting suicide; withdrawing from loved ones; mood swings; hopelessness; preparing wills or giving away belongings
Root Cause:
Often related to severe depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, or psychiatric conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation through direct questioning, psychological assessment, and risk evaluation using tools like the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS).
Treatment:
Immediate safety measures (e.g., hospitalization), psychotherapy (e.g., cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy), crisis intervention, and addressing underlying psychiatric disorders.
Medications:
Antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs like sertraline or fluoxetine ), mood stabilizers (e.g., lithium ), antipsychotics (e.g., olanzapine or risperidone ), and sedatives (e.g., benzodiazepines) for acute agitation.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 4.6% of individuals annually in the U.S., with higher prevalence in adolescents and young adults.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of mental illness, previous suicide attempts, family history of suicide, substance abuse, major life stressors, social isolation, chronic illness.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With timely intervention, individuals can recover and lead fulfilling lives, but ongoing support and monitoring are crucial to prevent recurrence.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Risk of completed suicide, long-term psychiatric sequelae, injury from attempts, impact on loved ones.
Acute Psychosis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies
Sub-category: Psychotic Disorders
Symptoms:
delusions; hallucinations; disorganized thinking; paranoia; agitation; social withdrawal; difficulty distinguishing reality
Root Cause:
Often associated with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, substance-induced psychosis, severe stress, or medical conditions like brain injuries or infections.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, psychiatric history, ruling out organic causes through lab tests (e.g., toxicology screening, thyroid function tests), and imaging (e.g., CT/MRI).
Treatment:
Rapid tranquilization (if agitated), antipsychotic medications, addressing underlying causes, and supportive psychotherapy.
Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol , olanzapine , risperidone ), benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam for agitation), and mood stabilizers (e.g., valproate for bipolar-related psychosis).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 3% of the population experiences a psychotic episode during their lifetime.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of psychosis, substance use (e.g., cannabis, hallucinogens), sleep deprivation, severe stress, or trauma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the underlying cause; with treatment, many recover fully from a first episode, but chronic conditions require long-term management.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Self-harm, harm to others, difficulty maintaining relationships, job loss, homelessness.
Severe Agitation or Aggression
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies
Sub-category: Behavioral Crises
Symptoms:
physical aggression; verbal outbursts; restlessness; disorientation; self-harming behavior; destruction of property
Root Cause:
May stem from psychiatric disorders (e.g., mania, psychosis, personality disorders), substance intoxication or withdrawal, head trauma, or metabolic disturbances (e.g., hypoglycemia).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Observation of behavior, patient history, physical examination, and ruling out medical causes (e.g., lab work, imaging for head injuries).
Treatment:
De-escalation techniques, physical or chemical restraint (if necessary), treating underlying causes, and possibly hospitalization.
Medications:
Sedatives (e.g., lorazepam ), antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol or aripiprazole ), mood stabilizers (e.g., carbamazepine for underlying bipolar disorder), and beta-blockers (e.g., propranolol for aggression).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in emergency settings, particularly among patients with known psychiatric or substance use disorders.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Mental health disorders, substance use, stressful events, prior history of aggression, traumatic brain injury.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with prompt management and treatment of underlying issues, though recurrence is possible without ongoing care.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Physical harm to self or others, legal issues, social isolation, worsening of underlying conditions.
Delirium Tremens
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies
Sub-category: Substance-Related Crises
Symptoms:
severe agitation; confusion; hallucinations; fever; sweating; tachycardia; hypertension; seizures
Root Cause:
Acute severe alcohol withdrawal resulting in central nervous system hyperactivity, involving dysregulated neurotransmitter activity (reduced GABA and excessive glutamate).
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on history of alcohol use, presenting symptoms, and ruling out other causes of delirium through lab tests and imaging if necessary.
Treatment:
High-dose benzodiazepines, IV fluids, thiamine, magnesium, and antipsychotics for severe agitation or psychosis. ICU-level monitoring may be required for severe cases.
Medications:
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam , diazepam , chlordiazepoxide ) are used for sedation and symptom control. Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol ) may help with hallucinations or severe agitation. Thiamine to prevent or treat Wernicke's encephalopathy.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in 5% of patients undergoing alcohol withdrawal; more common in individuals with chronic, severe alcohol dependence.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Long-term heavy alcohol use, history of delirium tremens, concurrent medical illness, and poor nutritional status.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Life-threatening if untreated; with aggressive treatment, the prognosis improves significantly, but mortality still ranges from 1-4%.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Arrhythmias, respiratory failure, aspiration pneumonia, cardiovascular collapse, and Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome.
Drug-Induced Psychosis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Psychiatric and Behavioral Emergencies
Sub-category: Substance-Related Crises
Symptoms:
paranoia; hallucinations (auditory or visual); delusions; disorganized thinking; agitation; confusion
Root Cause:
Acute or chronic use of psychoactive substances disrupts neurotransmitter systems (e.g., dopamine, serotonin) in the brain, leading to psychosis.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation of symptoms, history of substance use, and toxicology screening to identify causative substances.
Treatment:
Immediate cessation of the causative drug, supportive care, and symptomatic treatment with antipsychotics or sedatives as needed.
Medications:
Antipsychotics (e.g., haloperidol , olanzapine ) are used to manage psychotic symptoms. Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam ) for agitation or severe distress.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among individuals using stimulants (e.g., methamphetamine, cocaine), hallucinogens, or cannabis; prevalence varies by substance and population.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Use of high doses of psychoactive substances, preexisting mental health conditions, genetic predisposition, and poly-drug use.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Usually resolves with cessation of the causative substance, but prolonged psychosis may occur in some cases, especially with chronic use.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Self-harm, aggression, chronic psychotic disorders, and substance dependency.
Pediatric Sepsis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Pediatric Emergencies
Sub-category: Infections
Symptoms:
fever or hypothermia; rapid heart rate; rapid breathing; altered mental state; low urine output; cold, clammy skin; pale or mottled appearance
Root Cause:
A systemic inflammatory response to infection leading to organ dysfunction, caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other pathogens entering the bloodstream.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation; laboratory tests such as complete blood count (CBC), blood cultures, lactate levels, and inflammatory markers (e.g., CRP, procalcitonin); imaging studies to identify the infection source.
Treatment:
Immediate resuscitation with fluids, administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics, and management of organ dysfunction with oxygen, vasopressors, and sometimes dialysis or mechanical ventilation.
Medications:
Broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g., ceftriaxone , piperacillin-tazobactam, or vancomycin ) are first-line treatments, often combined with antifungal (e.g., fluconazole ) or antiviral agents (e.g., acyclovir ) if indicated. Vasopressors like norepinephrine or dopamine may be used to stabilize blood pressure.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
A leading cause of morbidity and mortality in children, with approximately 75,000 cases annually in the U.S. and higher rates globally in low-resource settings.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prematurity, weak immune systems, chronic illnesses, malnutrition, recent surgery, or central venous catheters.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Early identification and treatment improve survival rates; untreated or delayed treatment can lead to septic shock and multi-organ failure.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Septic shock, multi-organ failure, long-term neurological or developmental deficits, and death.
Pediatric fractures
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Pediatric Emergencies
Sub-category: Trauma
Symptoms:
pain and swelling at the site of injury; deformity or abnormal positioning of the limb; inability or refusal to move the affected limb; bruising or discoloration; tenderness to touch
Root Cause:
Bone breakage in children caused by trauma, often due to falls, sports injuries, or accidents. Children's bones are more flexible and prone to specific fracture patterns like greenstick or buckle fractures.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Physical examination, patient history, and imaging studies such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs if necessary.
Treatment:
Immobilization with casts or splints, reduction of displaced fractures (manual or surgical), and surgical fixation in severe cases (e.g., rods, plates, or screws).
Medications:
Pain management is typically prescribed, including acetaminophen (analgesic) or ibuprofen (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug). For severe pain, opioids (e.g., codeine ) may be used for a short duration.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in children, with fractures accounting for 10-25% of all pediatric injuries.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High levels of physical activity, weak bone structure due to nutritional deficiencies (e.g., calcium or vitamin D), certain medical conditions affecting bone strength, and lack of supervision during play or sports.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally excellent with appropriate treatment. Children's bones heal faster than adults, often within weeks.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Malunion, growth disturbances in the growth plate (physeal fractures), and long-term deformities if untreated.
Non-accidental trauma (child abuse)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Pediatric Emergencies
Sub-category: Trauma
Symptoms:
unexplained or inconsistent injuries; multiple fractures in various stages of healing; bruises in atypical patterns (e.g., shapes of objects); burn marks or scars; behavioral changes such as fearfulness or withdrawal; failure to thrive; injuries that don't match the history provided by caregivers
Root Cause:
Intentional physical harm inflicted on a child, often involving repetitive or severe trauma. This is part of child abuse and neglect, which may include physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Careful history taking to identify inconsistencies, physical examination for patterns of injury, and imaging studies to assess the type and age of fractures or injuries. Additional assessments may include consultation with child protection services and psychological evaluation.
Treatment:
Immediate stabilization of physical injuries, ensuring the child's safety by involving child protective services, and comprehensive care including mental health support and social interventions.
Medications:
No specific medications directly treat the abuse. However, medications might be prescribed for pain management (e.g., acetaminophen , ibuprofen ) or treatment of physical injuries (e.g., antibiotics for infected wounds).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Non-accidental trauma is a significant public health concern. Approximately 1 in 7 children experiences abuse annually in the United States, with higher risks in socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Parental substance abuse, domestic violence, poverty, mental health disorders in caregivers, lack of social support, and history of abuse in the caregiver's childhood.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable depending on the severity of injuries and psychosocial support. Early intervention improves outcomes, but long-term emotional and physical impacts may persist.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic physical disabilities, psychological trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), developmental delays, and in severe cases, fatality.
Ectopic Pregnancy
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Pregnancy-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
sharp or stabbing pelvic or abdominal pain; vaginal bleeding; dizziness or fainting; shoulder pain; weakness
Root Cause:
Fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, most commonly in the fallopian tubes, leading to an inability to sustain the pregnancy and risk of rupture.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Combination of pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and serum hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) levels.
Treatment:
Treatment can involve medical management (methotrexate to dissolve the pregnancy) or surgical intervention (laparoscopic surgery) to remove the ectopic tissue and repair or remove the affected fallopian tube.
Medications:
Methotrexate , a folate antagonist, is prescribed to stop the growth of the ectopic pregnancy in select cases.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 1–2% of all pregnancies.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prior ectopic pregnancy, tubal surgery, pelvic inflammatory disease, smoking, assisted reproductive technologies, and use of intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with early detection and appropriate treatment; fertility can be preserved in many cases.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rupture leading to severe internal bleeding, shock, infertility, and death if untreated.
Placental Abruption
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Pregnancy-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden abdominal pain; vaginal bleeding; back pain; uterine tenderness; decreased fetal movement
Root Cause:
Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall, impairing oxygen and nutrient delivery to the fetus and risking maternal hemorrhage.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical symptoms, ultrasound imaging, and monitoring of fetal heart rate patterns.
Treatment:
Immediate delivery (typically by cesarean section if the condition is severe), stabilization of the mother's vital signs, and blood transfusion if needed.
Medications:
No direct medications to treat the condition, but corticosteroids (e.g., betamethasone ) may be used to accelerate fetal lung maturity in preterm cases if time allows.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects about 1% of pregnancies worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, preeclampsia, previous placental abruption, trauma, smoking, and drug use (e.g., cocaine).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on severity and gestational age; good with timely intervention.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe hemorrhage, preterm birth, fetal distress or death, and maternal morbidity.
Postpartum Hemorrhage (PPH)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Pregnancy-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
excessive vaginal bleeding post-delivery; low blood pressure; rapid heart rate; pallor; dizziness or fainting
Root Cause:
Failure of the uterus to contract adequately (uterine atony), trauma during delivery, retained placenta, or coagulation disorders.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical assessment of blood loss (>500 mL after vaginal delivery or >1000 mL after cesarean) and evaluation of uterine tone and retained tissue.
Treatment:
Uterine massage, administration of uterotonic agents, surgical interventions if necessary, and blood transfusion to manage severe cases.
Medications:
Uterotonic agents such as oxytocin , misoprostol , carboprost tromethamine , or ergometrine are used to stimulate uterine contractions and reduce bleeding.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 3–5% of deliveries worldwide, being a leading cause of maternal mortality.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged labor, multiple pregnancies, uterine overdistension, chorioamnionitis, or use of certain labor-inducing medications.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with timely management but can be life-threatening if unaddressed.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe anemia, hypovolemic shock, need for hysterectomy, organ failure, or maternal death.
Ovarian Torsion
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Gynecologic Conditions
Symptoms:
sudden severe pelvic or abdominal pain; nausea; vomiting; abdominal tenderness; fever (occasionally)
Root Cause:
Twisting of the ovary and sometimes the fallopian tube, which compromises blood flow to the ovary. Often associated with ovarian cysts or masses.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical exam, transvaginal or pelvic ultrasound with Doppler to assess blood flow to the ovary, and occasionally diagnostic laparoscopy.
Treatment:
Emergency surgical intervention (laparoscopy or laparotomy) to untwist the ovary and preserve ovarian function. In some cases, oophorectomy (removal of the ovary) may be necessary.
Medications:
Pain relief is often managed with analgesics such as NSAIDs or opioids. Post-surgery antibiotics may be used to prevent infection. Examples - Ibuprofen (NSAID), Morphine (opioid), and Ceftriaxone (antibiotic).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare; accounts for about 3% of gynecologic emergencies.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Ovarian cysts or tumors, pregnancy, hormonal treatments for ovulation induction, previous ovarian torsion, long ovarian ligaments.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated promptly. Delay in treatment can lead to ovarian necrosis and loss of ovarian function.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infertility, ovarian necrosis, peritonitis, sepsis, and in severe cases, death.
Severe Menorrhagia
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Obstetric and Gynecologic Emergencies
Sub-category: Gynecologic Conditions
Symptoms:
heavy menstrual bleeding lasting more than 7 days; clots larger than a quarter; fatigue; shortness of breath; dizziness; pallor
Root Cause:
Excessive uterine bleeding, often caused by hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, endometrial polyps, bleeding disorders, or underlying medical conditions.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical exam, pelvic ultrasound, blood tests (CBC for anemia, coagulation profile, thyroid function tests), and endometrial biopsy if indicated.
Treatment:
Depends on the underlying cause but includes medical management and sometimes surgical interventions.
Medications:
Hormonal therapy, antifibrinolytics, and NSAIDs. Examples - Tranexamic acid (antifibrinolytic), Combined oral contraceptives (hormonal), Ibuprofen (NSAID).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10-30% of menstruating individuals, with higher rates in perimenopausal women.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, anticoagulant use, hereditary bleeding disorders (e.g., von Willebrand disease).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies; treatable in most cases with appropriate management. Severe or untreated cases may lead to chronic anemia.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Iron-deficiency anemia, fatigue, poor quality of life, and in rare cases, severe hypovolemia requiring transfusion.
Frostbite
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Environmental and Exposure-Related Conditions
Sub-category: Heat and Cold Injuries
Symptoms:
numbness; tingling; pale or waxy skin; blisters; hardened or blackened skin in severe cases; loss of sensation in the affected area
Root Cause:
Freezing of skin and underlying tissues due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, resulting in ice crystal formation in cells.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is clinical, based on visual examination of the affected area, patient history of cold exposure, and imaging (e.g., X-ray or MRI) to assess tissue damage in severe cases.
Treatment:
Rapid rewarming in warm water (98.6°F to 102.2°F or 37°C to 39°C), pain management, wound care, and sometimes surgical intervention (e.g., debridement or amputation).
Medications:
Analgesics (e.g., ibuprofen ) for pain and inflammation; thrombolytics (e.g., tissue plasminogen activator) or vasodilators (e.g., iloprost ) in severe cases to improve blood flow.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in individuals exposed to freezing temperatures, particularly those engaging in outdoor activities in cold environments.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Prolonged cold exposure, inadequate clothing, smoking, diabetes, poor circulation, and dehydration.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Mild frostbite often heals completely with proper care; severe frostbite can lead to permanent tissue damage, amputation, or disability.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Infection, gangrene, nerve damage, and loss of digits or limbs.
Drowning and Near-Drowning
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Environmental and Exposure-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; unconsciousness; cyanosis (blue skin); frothy sputum; coughing or choking; cardiac arrest; low body temperature; confusion or disorientation if conscious
Root Cause:
The inability to breathe due to submersion or immersion in water, leading to hypoxia (oxygen deprivation) and, if untreated, cardiac arrest and death.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on history of submersion, visible symptoms such as cyanosis or respiratory distress, and imaging studies (e.g., chest X-ray) to assess lung damage or aspiration. Blood gases may also be analyzed to evaluate oxygenation and acid-base balance.
Treatment:
Initial treatment focuses on removing the person from the water and providing immediate resuscitation (airway, breathing, circulation). Further care may include oxygen therapy, mechanical ventilation for severe respiratory distress, warming techniques for hypothermia, and treatment for potential secondary complications such as pneumonia or cerebral edema.
Medications:
Medications may include
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Drowning is the third leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, with an estimated 236,000 deaths annually. Near-drowning incidents are more common and may have significant morbidity.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Lack of swimming ability, unsupervised access to water, alcohol or drug use, boating accidents, seizure disorders, and lack of use of personal flotation devices.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Prognosis depends on the duration of submersion, water temperature (better outcomes in cold water), and the speed and effectiveness of resuscitation. Early intervention improves chances of survival and reduces complications.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
aspiration pneumonia; acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS); hypoxic brain injury; cerebral edema; cardiac arrhythmias; electrolyte imbalances; secondary infections
Electrocution and Lightning Strikes
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Environmental and Exposure-Related Conditions
Symptoms:
burns at the entry and exit points; cardiac arrhythmias; loss of consciousness; seizures; muscle pain; respiratory distress; neurological deficits; vision or hearing loss
Root Cause:
The condition arises from high-voltage electric currents or direct lightning strikes passing through the body, causing thermal injury, tissue damage, cardiac or respiratory arrest, and neurological dysfunction.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made through clinical history (e.g., exposure to electrical or lightning events), physical examination for burns or trauma, electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess cardiac function, imaging (CT or MRI) for internal injuries, and blood tests to check for rhabdomyolysis or organ damage.
Treatment:
Treatment includes immediate resuscitation with CPR if needed, stabilization of airway and breathing, intravenous fluids to prevent rhabdomyolysis, wound care for burns, and management of cardiac arrhythmias or seizures. Hospital observation may be required for complications.
Medications:
Pain management may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or opioids like morphine for severe pain. Anticonvulsants such as lorazepam or phenytoin may be used if seizures occur. Cardiac arrhythmias might be managed with medications like amiodarone or beta-blockers.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare overall but more common in regions prone to severe thunderstorms or occupational exposure to electrical hazards. Lightning strikes are estimated to cause 24,000 deaths annually worldwide.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Working with high-voltage equipment, outdoor activities during storms, lack of proper safety measures, living in regions with high lightning activity.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
The prognosis varies based on the severity of the injuries. Minor injuries often heal with appropriate care, while severe cases with cardiac arrest or organ damage may have higher morbidity and mortality.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term complications can include chronic pain, neurological deficits (e.g., memory loss, peripheral neuropathy), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), cataracts, and cardiac damage such as arrhythmias or myocardial injury.
Anaphylaxis
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies
Sub-category: Allergic Reactions
Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; swelling of the face or throat; hives or skin rash; rapid or weak pulse; nausea or vomiting; dizziness or fainting
Root Cause:
Severe allergic reaction caused by the release of histamine and other chemicals from immune cells, leading to widespread inflammation and tissue swelling.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is clinical, based on a sudden onset of symptoms after exposure to a known allergen. Confirmatory tests may include elevated serum tryptase levels or identification of the allergen through skin or blood tests after stabilization.
Treatment:
Immediate administration of intramuscular epinephrine is the primary treatment, followed by supportive measures such as oxygen, IV fluids, and antihistamines.
Medications:
Epinephrine (first-line treatment, adrenergic agonist), antihistamines like diphenhydramine (H1 antagonist) and ranitidine (H2 antagonist), corticosteroids like methylprednisolone (to reduce rebound inflammation).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1.6–5% of the global population experiences anaphylaxis at some point in their lifetime.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
History of allergies, asthma, previous anaphylactic reactions, family history of anaphylaxis, exposure to triggers (foods, insect stings, medications).
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most cases resolve without long-term complications. Delay in treatment can lead to fatal outcomes, including cardiac arrest or asphyxiation.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Airway obstruction, shock, cardiac arrest, prolonged hypoxia leading to brain injury, or biphasic anaphylaxis (recurrent symptoms after initial treatment).
Acute Severe Headache (e.g., Ruptured Aneurysm)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies
Sub-category: Pain Syndromes
Symptoms:
sudden, severe headache (thunderclap headache); nausea and vomiting; stiff neck; photophobia; altered mental status; seizures; neurological deficits (e.g., weakness, numbness)
Root Cause:
Rupture of a cerebral aneurysm leading to subarachnoid hemorrhage and increased intracranial pressure.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, non-contrast CT scan of the head, lumbar puncture if CT is inconclusive, angiography for aneurysm localization.
Treatment:
Stabilization (airway, breathing, circulation), blood pressure management, neurosurgical intervention (e.g., clipping or coiling of the aneurysm), and critical care monitoring.
Medications:
Antihypertensive drugs (e.g., labetalol , nicardipine ) to manage blood pressure; anticonvulsants (e.g., levetiracetam ) to prevent seizures; calcium channel blockers (e.g., nimodipine ) to reduce the risk of vasospasm; pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen ).
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Approximately 1-2% of the population has an unruptured cerebral aneurysm; rupture incidence is about 6–10 per 100,000 people annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Hypertension, smoking, family history of aneurysms, connective tissue disorders, alcohol abuse, older age, female gender.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Variable; early treatment improves outcomes, but mortality rates remain high (up to 50%). Survivors may experience long-term neurological deficits.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Rebleeding, vasospasm, hydrocephalus, seizures, permanent neurological damage.
Acute Back Pain (e.g., Cauda Equina Syndrome)
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies
Sub-category: Neurological Syndromes
Symptoms:
severe low back pain; saddle anesthesia; loss of bowel or bladder control; bilateral leg weakness or numbness; sciatica symptoms in both legs
Root Cause:
Compression of the cauda equina nerves, often due to a herniated disc, tumor, trauma, or infection.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical examination (checking for red flag symptoms), MRI of the lumbosacral spine, CT myelogram if MRI is unavailable.
Treatment:
Emergency surgical decompression (e.g., laminectomy, discectomy) within 24–48 hours of symptom onset to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Medications:
Pain management with NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen , naproxen ) or opioids (e.g., morphine ) for severe pain; corticosteroids (e.g., dexamethasone ) to reduce inflammation; antibiotics if caused by infection.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare, accounting for 2–6% of lumbar disc herniation cases; incidence is about 1 per 100,000 annually.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Spinal stenosis, severe lumbar disc herniation, trauma, spinal infections, tumors, previous back surgery.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated promptly; delay in treatment can result in permanent bowel/bladder dysfunction and paralysis.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent neurological deficits, chronic pain, bowel and bladder dysfunction, sexual dysfunction.
Airway Obstruction
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies
Sub-category: Foreign Body Ingestion/Inhalation
Symptoms:
difficulty breathing; wheezing; choking; cyanosis (bluish skin); inability to speak; stridor (high-pitched breathing sound); unconsciousness in severe cases
Root Cause:
Blockage of the airway caused by foreign objects, swelling, trauma, or other obstructions that impede airflow to the lungs.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation based on symptoms, physical examination (e.g., visualizing the throat), imaging (e.g., X-ray, CT scan), and potentially bronchoscopy for direct visualization of the airway.
Treatment:
Immediate intervention to clear the obstruction (e.g., Heimlich maneuver, suctioning, or direct removal with instruments), oxygen therapy, and securing the airway through intubation or tracheostomy if necessary.
Medications:
Medications may include epinephrine (a bronchodilator for anaphylaxis), corticosteroids (to reduce airway swelling), and sedatives or anesthetics if endoscopy or surgery is required. Epinephrine - Adrenergic agonist for emergency relief in anaphylaxis. Corticosteroids - Anti-inflammatory drugs for swelling reduction. Bronchodilators - Beta-agonists (e.g., albuterol ) in cases of reactive airway obstruction.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Airway obstruction is a common cause of emergency visits, with thousands of cases annually, particularly in children under 3 and older adults with impaired swallowing reflexes.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Young children (tendency to place objects in their mouths), older adults (swallowing difficulties), eating while talking or laughing, and medical conditions like severe allergies or asthma.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Varies based on promptness of treatment; most cases resolve without long-term consequences if treated promptly. Delay in treatment can result in hypoxia, brain injury, or death.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Hypoxia, cardiac arrest, aspiration pneumonia, tracheal damage, and neurological damage from lack of oxygen.
Esophageal or Gastrointestinal Obstruction
Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care
Category: Miscellaneous Emergencies
Sub-category: Foreign Body Ingestion/Inhalation
Symptoms:
difficulty swallowing (dysphagia); chest pain; drooling; regurgitation; vomiting; abdominal pain; inability to pass gas or stool (in cases of complete obstruction)
Root Cause:
A blockage in the esophagus or gastrointestinal tract caused by ingested foreign objects, strictures, tumors, or impacted food.
How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, physical examination, imaging studies (X-ray, CT scan, or ultrasound), endoscopy for direct visualization. Contrast studies may be used in some cases.
Treatment:
Removal of the obstruction via endoscopy, surgery for severe cases, and supportive care such as IV fluids or pain management. If caused by food impaction, smooth muscle relaxants or enzymatic agents may be used.
Medications:
Glucagon - Smooth muscle relaxant to assist with food impaction. Proton pump inhibitors (e.g., omeprazole ) - Reduce acid and prevent mucosal damage in prolonged obstructions. Antiemetics (e.g., ondansetron ) - To control vomiting during treatment.
Prevalence:
How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common among young children (due to foreign object ingestion) and adults with esophageal disorders such as strictures or motility issues.
Risk Factors:
Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age (young children and elderly), neurological disorders, dental issues, alcohol intoxication, and eating too quickly.
Prognosis:
The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated promptly; delayed intervention can result in perforation, infection, or permanent damage to the gastrointestinal tract.
Complications:
Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Perforation, infection (mediastinitis or peritonitis), aspiration pneumonia, esophageal stricture formation, or death in severe cases.