Most aches and pains we experience are temporary — a sore muscle after exercise, a mild headache, or a tender joint. These usually improve with rest or simple home remedies. But according to Harvard Health Publishing, some types of pain signal something more serious and should never be ignored.
Here are five types of pain that may indicate a medical emergency, and what to watch for.
Chest pain
Any unexplained chest pain should be treated as a medical emergency. It could indicate a heart attack or a serious condition like a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lungs). Seek immediate help if you experience:
- Pressure, tightness, or heaviness in the chest
- Pain that radiates to the jaw, neck, back, or left arm
- Shortness of breath, sweating, dizziness, or nausea
These symptoms may not always be dramatic — even mild chest discomfort can signal a serious problem. When in doubt, call for help.
Suddenly a severe headache
A headache that strikes suddenly and feels unusually intense could be a sign of a serious issue, such as a stroke, brain haemorrhage, or an infection like meningitis. Red flags include:
- Fever, vomiting, or a stiff neck
- Seizures, confusion, or difficulty speaking
- Visual changes or sensitivity to light
- Weakness or numbness in the face or limbs
Even if you have a history of headaches, a "worst-ever" headache or one that's different from your usual pattern warrants urgent medical evaluation.
Pelvic pain
Severe or sudden pelvic pain should never be ignored. While some causes are minor, others may require emergency care.
In women, pelvic pain may indicate a ruptured ovarian cyst or an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus that can become life-threatening).
In all adults, pelvic pain could also be a sign of appendicitis, especially if the pain worsens with movement or is accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications.
Persistent or severe abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is common — but if it's intense, persistent, or paired with other concerning symptoms, it may point to a serious condition like appendicitis, pancreatitis, or diverticulitis.
Get medical attention if you have:
- Pain lasting more than a few hours
- Fever, chills, or abdominal tenderness
- Blood in your stool or vomit
- Nausea, bloating, or unexplained weight loss
Don't try to "wait it out." Abdominal pain that disrupts daily activity or worsens over time should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Eye pain
Pain in or around the eye should never be overlooked, especially when it's sudden or associated with vision changes.
Seek care from an eye specialist if you experience:
- Pain after trauma to the eye
- Redness with pain or light sensitivity
- Blurred vision, flashes of light, or new floaters
- Sudden loss of vision
These symptoms can be caused by serious conditions such as glaucoma, retinal detachment, infections, or inflammation inside the eye (such as uveitis or iritis). Prompt treatment can protect your vision.
When in doubt, get checked out
Not all pain is a cause for alarm — but if it's intense, sudden, or comes with other symptoms like fever, weakness, or vision changes, don't ignore it. The earlier a serious condition is identified, the better your chances for effective treatment and recovery.
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