Hospitals refuse admission to actor Sambhavna Seth during COVID-19 crisis; here is what one should do in case of a health emergency

The ongoing COVID crisis is an unprecedented crisis. The number of infected are rapidly increasing and as per reports, many hospitals are refusing to take in other patients fearing infection spread. While this may seem like the right thing to do, it has also brought on additional health risks for those needing care.
Television star and famous Bigg Boss contestant Sambhavna Seth recently suffered a health crisis but due to the COVID-19 crisis, she had to undergo a painful ordeal where hospitals refused admission.
In the wee hours of Monday morning, the actress was rushed to the hospital by her husband when her blood levels destabilized and she developed a nasty ear infection. Speaking to us, Sambhavna's husband, Avinash said, "Sambhavna had been having an allergy and she was taking medications like usual. Problems persisted and eventually she developed vertigo and severe anxiety. While we were practising safety and talking to doctors, when the situation got worse, we decided to go to the hospital, where we were refused entry and simply sent home. Only after a while did we find a doctor who was ready to treat Sambhavna. Now we are back home, she is feeling better and taking ample rest."
Detailing going through the "worst time", Sambhavna took to social media to share how she suffered from a host of problems, including a sudden drop in blood pressure, anxiety attack and palpitations which made it difficult for her to be at home.
Mumbai, where the actress resides is one of the biggest hotspots for COVID-19 in India.
What to do in case of a non-COVID health emergency
Dr Amit A Saraf, MD FRCP (London, Edinburgh, Glasgow), FACP (USA) FCPS, Director Department Internal Medicine, Jupiter Hospital feels that coronavirus shouldn't be a reason for putting your health on the backseat, "In every city, there are designated COVID and non-COVID hospitals. A health emergency cannot be ignored. Use teleconsultation and inform the hospital about your condition beforehand. This really helps. Remember, let your doctor decide what needs to be done. COVID need not be feared. "
Even though Sambhavna's ordeal was a tricky one to go through, there is no denying that health emergencies can happen when you least expect them. Patients are being pushed away and in several places, surgeries and procedures (including deliveries) have been rescheduled or require prior appointments.
Dr. Tanu Singhal consultant Infectious Disease at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital says, "Health emergencies are always attended to but patients themselves should be careful about the same, especially those with chronic illnesses, or the elderly. What we advise patients to do is to make use of the internet and teleconsult first, if possible. Stay in touch with your family doctor and follow preventive measures."
Only cases which are purely life-threatening or get complicated (such as a cardiac attack, accident, injury or stroke) are being considered. Many patients with existing medical conditions and ailments have been left running from one hospital to another needing care.
Dr. Bharesh Dedhia, Head of Department of Critical Care, Hinduja Hospital Khar also adds, "Whenever a patient has non-Covid-19 related emergency, it is not advisable to stay at home. The treating doctor should be called or the patient should be rushed to the nearest hospital's emergency ward, where appropriate treatment and investigation can be started as soon as possible. In a risky condition like stroke, if treatment is delayed, it may lead to paralysis and a life-long problem. I would also advise patients to get tested for COVID-19, as a lot of patients are asymptomatic.
While health emergencies cannot be completely ignored, here are some of the things people can do in case of severity. Dr Amit, adding to the list of precautions also says that with a few basic steps, patients can be safe from coronavirus and take care of their health too:
"Coronavirus is a respiratory infection. If you come to a medical facility or a hospital in case of an emergency, wear a mask. It really helps. Do not rush and bring in more people than needed. Remember to come in quick and not overstay your visit. Your immunity is what needs to be taken care of the most right now."
-Call the concerned doctor or hospital prior to going. Do not simply rush in.
-Make use of telemedicine facilities and let your treating doctor know how you are feeling
-Keep a handy list of emergency medications ready at home.
-Do not delay treatment. Prolonging medical help can make matters worse at times, especially for those suffering from gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, cardiac problems or those who have a chronic history of illness.
-If you must go to the hospital, maintain proper social distancing. Avoid touching shared utilities and surfaces.
-Do not crowd. If possible, limit the number of people who are required to travel.
-Wash your hands, wear a mask to avoid infections.
-Keep health officials in the loop and alert them of all information-your travel history, infection risk or any other problem.
-Lastly, remember that the pandemic is spreading at an alarming rate which is forcing authorities to impose strict curbs and measures. You might be asked to take tests for COVID-19, or bring in documents, proofs as well. Be prepared and do not panic. This will only make matters worse.