Help in an acute emergency

People in foreign-speaking countries usually visit a pharmacy because of slight health problems. However, in some cases the pharmacy also acts as a first point of contact and as a mediator for medical care. Foreign-language customers are grateful if they can communicate in English.

Heart palpitations, vertigo attacks and nausea can have quite different causes. If they occur while on holiday or during a stay abroad, the fear of not being able to communicate may even enhance the symptoms. In such a situation, many first seek advice at a pharmacy.

Before the affected person’s individual case can be assessed correctly, pharmacy technicians or the pharmacist will need to ask a few questions.

Questions and information

• Please briefly describe your health complaints.
• Since when have you had these symptoms?
• Are you familiar with these symptoms from earlier occasions?
• Do you have an explanation for your current problem?
• Have you been moving less than normally or, on the contrary, overexerted yourself during the last few days?
• Do you usually take medication because of high blood pressure? Did you continue taking that medication as normally during the last few days?
• Do you normally take medication to prevent a heart attack? Did you continue taking the medication as usual during the last few days?
• You need to see a doctor immediately. Should I phone a doctor for you and advise him that you are coming?
• You need to go to an emergency department at a clinic or hospital. Do you agree if I now call for an ambulance?

Additional information

• Drink two to three litres fluid a day, preferably mineral water.
• If your blood pressure drops, lie down and put up your legs at a right angle if possible.
• As soon as you have returned home, see your doctor and clarify if a long-term medicinal therapy is necessary.