If it feels like an emergency, is it really an emergency? All too often people rush to the emergency room for routine health problems that can safely be treated at home or at the doctor's office. On the other hand, someone who has been severely injured or is experiencing life-threatening symptoms should get to a hospital emergency room as quickly as possible. But the situation is not always clear-cut. These tips can help you decide what to do.

Treat yourself at home if:

• You have a common illness, such as a cold, flu, sore throat, or diarrhea that will get better on its own with bed rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications.

• You are getting worse. For instance: if you had a cold, but now you have a high fever, increased difficulty breathing, a sore throat or can't stop coughing.
• You have an injury but are not sure it's an emergency. For instance: if you have a deep sliver, a blistering burn or a bad cut.
• You have an ongoing health issue that needs treatment or evaluation.

• You have trouble breathing within hours after taking a medicine or being stung by an insect.
• You have sudden severe chest pain or pain that moves to the arm or neck.
• You suddenly can't think clearly.
• You have increased trouble breathing.
• You suddenly have intense and uncontrollable pain.
• You have a sudden change in vision.
• You have sudden or ongoing dizziness or weakness.
• You are weak on one side of the face or body.
• You are continuously coughing up or throwing up blood.
• You have severe bleeding that won't stop.
• You have a broken bone.
• You have a severe scald or burn.