If you twist your ankle while walking down stairs, it’s easy to determine that your injury can be treated at an urgent care clinic rather than a hospital emergency room. However, the choice isn’t always so clear. Understanding the differences between major and minor injuries and getting the appropriate treatment could save your life or preserve your long-term health.
Major vs. Minor Injuries
A major injury is any injury that could potentially lead to death, prolonged disability or permanently diminished quality of life. The following are examples of major injuries that should receive immediate attention.
- Compound fractures
- Any type of head or eye injury
- Deep lacerations or stab wounds
- Gunshot wounds
- Severe or extensive burns
- Injures accompanied by chest pain, paralysis, confusion, severe bleeding or unconsciousness
Minor injuries can be painful, but they don’t threaten your life, mobility or long-term survival. Examples of minor injuries include the following.
- Shallow cuts or abrasions
- Sprains and muscle strain
- Bruises and skin lesions
- Minor burns covering only a small area of skin
When and Where to Get Professional Medical Help
If you have a major injury or you suspect that your condition is serious, go to your nearest hospital emergency room without delay. Hospitals are staffed with highly trained medical professionals and are equipped to manage severe and life-threatening symptoms such as uncontrollable bleeding, severe swelling, shock and cardiovascular complications. Dial 911 if you’re in severe pain and can’t drive or no one is available to transport you.
For minor injuries that involve only moderate pain, limited motion, minimal swelling or other mild symptoms, save time and money by visiting an urgent care clinic for treatment. Urgent care clinics are limited in their ability to manage serious or life-threatening problems, but they can effectively treat most minor injuries and provide relief from symptoms. Don’t wait to see if the injury gets better on its own; this can sometimes lead to complications. If your symptoms are severe enough to make you consider getting help, you probably need to get it.
Trust Prime Urgent Care for Minor Injuries
If you live in Pearland, Missouri City, or Sugar Land, Texas, and want urgent help with minor injuries or illnesses, Prime Urgent Care is here to help. You don’t have to wait for hours at a hospital emergency room with injuries that are neither life-threatening nor complex. Our caring, professional staff will ensure that you’re treated as quickly and thoroughly as possible and relieve your pain so that you can get on with your day. Visit us online to learn more about our convenient medical services.
