Common signals of sudden illness include feelings of light-headedness, dizziness, confusion, or weakness. The victim may become pale or flushed, and may start sweating. Nausea and vomiting are causes for concern, as is diarrhea. Other signs of sudden illness include: changes in consciousness, seizure, paralysis, slurred speech, difficulty seeing, severe headache, breathing difficulty, and persistant pressure or pain.
CALL EMS If-
Care for Sudden Illness
First, call EMS immediately and care for any life-threatening conditions the victim may have. Help the vicitm rest comfortably, and prevent him or her from getting chilled or overheated. Reassure the victim. Monitor him or her for changes in consciousness, and do not givr the victim anything to eat or drink unless he or she is fully conscious.
If the vicitm vomits, place the victim on his or her side to prevent chokiing.
If the victim faints, position him or her on the back and elevate the legs about a foot if you do not suspect a head, neck or back injury. A person about to faint becomes pale, begins to perspire, and then loses consciousness and collapses. Remember the adage: "If the head is pale, raise the tail," which refers to returning blood and circulation to normal after fainting.
If the victim has a diabetic emergency, give him or her some form of sugar-orange juice, soda, candy, etc.
If the victim has a seizure, DO NOT place anything in his or her mouth. Remove any nearby objects that might injure the victim. Cushion his or her head with a pillow or folded blanket, towel or article of clothing. Move yourself out of the victim's range as he or she will probably be thrashing violently and you do not want to be injured. After the seizure, keep the airway clear and place the victim on his or her side if there is fluid, like blood, saliva or vomit, in his or her mouth.
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