Last week I went to three different emergency rooms in the span of three days. I was facing the dreaded status migrainosus with the added bonus of severe nausea and everything else that goes into a protracted migraine attack. I was in the worst pain I think I’ve ever experienced — which is saying a lot.
The ER visits ranged from somewhat helpful to actively harmful. So it goes when bringing a chronic condition to the emergency department, I suppose.
As a chronic illness and rare disease patient with a dash of mental illness on the side, I don’t choose to go to the ER lightly. As I’m sure many of you know all too well, it takes a lot to decide to seek emergency care when you live with a chronic illness or rare disease. We may have medical trauma, distrust in the health care system, or maybe even feel like we don’t deserve acute care when our chronic conditions throw us a curveball.
But, if and when the time comes to go to the emergency room, we have to be prepared. And who better to share advice about seeking emergency care than our community?
So, Mighties, what tips do you have for going to the ER/A&E with chronic illness and rare disease in tow?
P.S. Your answer may be used in an upcoming Rare Weekly newsletter!
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