Medical emergencies strike without warning. That’s why being prepared — and knowing where to turn — is so important. The Detroit Medical Center (DMC) is here to help you every step of the way.
Dr. Candace Kimpson, M.D., an emergency medicine physician at the DMC, appeared on “Live In The D” to remind us that with warmer weather comes an uptick in outdoor injuries, respiratory issues, and serious conditions like asthma attacks.
“Michigan is beautiful in the springtime; however, it does lead to an increase in injuries,” said Dr. Kimpson. “People are jumping into outdoor activities like biking, outdoor sports, even yardwork. Sometimes this can lead to over-exertion. That might show up as chest pain, shortness of breath, falls or fainting. When that happens, it’s important to seek medical care.”
Knowing when to seek emergency care can save lives — especially when it comes to heart attacks and strokes.
Remember the warning signs:
- Heart attack: Chest pressure, pain in arms, back, neck, jaw, shortness of breath, cold sweats.
- Stroke: Use the B.E.F.A.S.T. checklist — Balance off, Eyes blurry, Face drooping, Arms weak, Speech slurred, and Time to call 9-1-1.
Preparation can make your ER visit smoother. “Bring your ID, insurance card, a list of medications, and necessary personal items like glasses or hearing aids.
At the DMC, patients are seen based on the severity of their condition — not just the order they arrive. The goal is to connect you with a doctor in minutes, not hours. There are six ERs across Metro Detroit — including two dedicated exclusively to children — so, expert care is never far away.
To learn more, click on the video above or visit DMC.org/FastER.
