When to go to the ER for weakness

Everyone experiences muscle weakness from time to time, especially when tired, hungry or sick. But when does a feeling of weakness —whether leg weakness, arm weakness or weakness all over—start to become worrisome enough to seek emergency care?

Consider the guidelines below to decide if you or a loved one should visit a Denver hospital.

When to go to the ER for weakness – symptoms and conditions

When muscle weakness is experienced in certain areas of the body, a more serious issue may be at hand. If you or someone you know is experiencing weakness of the face or numbness or weakness on one side of the body, seek emergency treatment immediately as this may be indicative of a stroke.

A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing damage to the brain. If you notice any of the following stroke symptoms occurring with you or a loved one, call 911 immediately:

• Confusion or lack of comprehension
• Coordination issues
• Difficulty speaking or slurred speech
• Drooping or sagging of the face
• Extreme fatigue
• Numbness or weakness
• Paralysis on one side of the body
• Sudden vision loss or impairment

An emergency room (ER) visit may also be required if you or a loved one experiences weakness accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Chronic fatigue
• Fever
• High heart rate/racing heart
• Low blood pressure

Weakness and existing medical conditions

For individuals with the following medical conditions, a trip to the ER may be required as weakness can indicate a more serious issue:

• Diabetes
• History of anemia
• Patients in chemotherapy treatment

Helpful links

• Emergency Care