A&E: Saving lives in a timely manner
25 March 2021
THE Accident and Emergency (A&E) department of a hospital is a daunting place. Most of us hope we never have to see the inside of that building, but knowing when to enter is crucial because it saves lives.
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) consultant emergency physician, Dr Wee Tong Ming says Malaysians need to be aware of certain symptoms that call for immediate medical attention. They must never downplay these symptoms, more so now given the pandemic.
"One must be mindful of changes in health and wellbeing. These include sudden or prolonged breathing difficulties, chest and abdominal pain, bleeding that cannot be stopped, blood in the urine, bloody diarrhoea or the sudden inability to see, walk or move."
All these warrant a trip to the A&E so the symptoms can be treated in a safe and timely manner.
Since the onset of the pandemic, many people have put off visiting hospitals or healthcare centres as they are concerned about contracting the virus.
But Dr Wee says it is important for all Malaysians to maintain good health and practice proper precautions, so they do not need to be in a position where they require emergency treatment. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the best thing one can do.
"Exercise, maintain a proper diet, and keep your mind healthy as well. If you are on any medications, take them as prescribed and listen to your doctor's advice."
If you are unwell, either physically or mentally, do not delay seeking treatment and get to the root of the problem before it progresses into something that requires more complex treatment, he adds.
Early detection and treatment can change the outcome greatly. To promote better health awareness among local communities, SMCV is currently doing a medical outreach programme in Cheras which will go on until April.
Its' medical team will travel through residential areas within the vicinity to provide medical assessments and check-ups.
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