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Respiratory Problems,Age 12 and Older - Emergencies

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Do you have any of the following symptoms that require emergency treatment? Call 911 or other emergency services immediately.

  • Breathing stops.

    Note:

    If breathing has stopped, after calling or other emergency services, see Rescue Breathing and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) in the topic Dealing With Emergencies.
  • Moderate to severe difficulty breathing occurs.
  • Difficulty breathing and choking on an object in the windpipe occurs.

    Note:

    If choking is present, go to the topic Choking Rescue Procedure. Do not perform the Heimlich maneuver if the person is still coughing or able to speak.
  • Chest discomfort or pain is crushing or squeezing or feels like a heavy weight on the chest.
  • Chest discomfort or pain occurs with:
    • Sweating.
    • Shortness of breath.
    • Nausea or vomiting.
    • Pain that spreads from the chest to the back, neck, jaw, upper abdomen, or one or both shoulders or arms. See an illustration of chest pain.
    • Dizziness or lightheadedness.
    • A fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat.
  • Rapid swelling of the throat or tongue (angioedema) occurs.

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: February 25, 2008
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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