ER doctors warn: Five everyday habits that could land you in the hospital
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In the rush of daily life, it's easy to overlook small habits that could lead to major medical emergencies.
ER doctors witness the consequences of risky behaviors firsthand, and they’re sounding the alarm about five common activities that put people in serious danger.
Ignoring these warnings could mean a trip to the emergency room—or worse.
Personal transportation gadgets are more popular than ever, but they come with serious risks.
ER doctors stress the importance of helmets—even if it means dealing with “helmet hair.”
"Helmet hair is a small sacrifice to pay to save your skull from potentially cracking open should you have a fall," explains Dr. Wen, an emergency physician.
Even more concerning? Riding while intoxicated dramatically increases the chances of serious injury or death.
"Check for damage and make sure the brakes, tires, frame, handlebars, and other key components are intact," Dr. Wen advises.
And if the manufacturer says the device is for one rider only?
Stick to the rules—no extra passengers.
The warning against texting while driving is nothing new, but despite countless PSAs and laws, it remains a major cause of crashes.
"Not only is it illegal, but it means your gaze is away from the road," Dr. Wen cautions.
Even a split-second distraction can lead to a collision that injures or kills drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
The best rule? Put the phone away completely while driving.
If a text or call can’t wait, pull over safely before responding.
ER doctors urge skepticism before attempting any challenge that involves:
If a challenge seems dangerous, it probably is.
Talk to friends and family—especially young people—about the real risks of chasing internet fame.
With prescription drugs more accessible than ever, many people borrow medication from friends or family without a second thought.
Big mistake.
"Take only medications that have been prescribed for you and filled at an authorized pharmacy," Dr. Wen emphasizes.
Even pills that look identical to prescribed medication may be counterfeit—and some contain fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times stronger than heroin.
The reality? Taking the wrong pill could kill you instantly.
Source: Eugene Pediatric Associates / YouTube
Many people underestimate how quickly drowning can occur, especially with young children.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning is "the number one cause of death among young children," with around 4,000 unintentional deaths every year.
ER doctors stress the importance of constant supervision near any body of water—even bathtubs.
"Ensuring a pool is maintained to a good standard with safety measures in place such as gates and giving children water safety lessons can help reduce the risk," says Dr. Wen.
And if you’re watching kids in the pool? No drinking or drugs—stay alert.
If you want to know more everyday activities that land thousands of people in the ER, read here.
Have you or someone you know learned a safety lesson the hard way? Do you have tips for staying safe while enjoying the conveniences of modern life? Share your stories and advice in the comments below.
Read next: Discover the hidden safety secrets of airplanes: 6 mysterious features that could save your life
ER doctors witness the consequences of risky behaviors firsthand, and they’re sounding the alarm about five common activities that put people in serious danger.
Ignoring these warnings could mean a trip to the emergency room—or worse.
1. Electric scooters, e-bikes, and hoverboards: fun but dangerous
Personal transportation gadgets are more popular than ever, but they come with serious risks.
ER doctors stress the importance of helmets—even if it means dealing with “helmet hair.”
"Helmet hair is a small sacrifice to pay to save your skull from potentially cracking open should you have a fall," explains Dr. Wen, an emergency physician.
Even more concerning? Riding while intoxicated dramatically increases the chances of serious injury or death.
"Check for damage and make sure the brakes, tires, frame, handlebars, and other key components are intact," Dr. Wen advises.
And if the manufacturer says the device is for one rider only?
Stick to the rules—no extra passengers.
2. Texting while driving: a deadly distraction
The warning against texting while driving is nothing new, but despite countless PSAs and laws, it remains a major cause of crashes.
"Not only is it illegal, but it means your gaze is away from the road," Dr. Wen cautions.
Even a split-second distraction can lead to a collision that injures or kills drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
The best rule? Put the phone away completely while driving.
If a text or call can’t wait, pull over safely before responding.
3. Dangerous social media challenges: don’t risk your life for likes
Social media trends come and go, but some viral challenges have led to real-world tragedies.ER doctors urge skepticism before attempting any challenge that involves:
- Ingesting unknown substances
- Holding your breath for extended periods
- Performing risky stunts
If a challenge seems dangerous, it probably is.
Talk to friends and family—especially young people—about the real risks of chasing internet fame.
4. Taking pills from unknown sources: a deadly gamble
With prescription drugs more accessible than ever, many people borrow medication from friends or family without a second thought.
Big mistake.
"Take only medications that have been prescribed for you and filled at an authorized pharmacy," Dr. Wen emphasizes.
Even pills that look identical to prescribed medication may be counterfeit—and some contain fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 times stronger than heroin.
The reality? Taking the wrong pill could kill you instantly.
5. Water safety: drowning happens faster than you think
Source: Eugene Pediatric Associates / YouTube
Many people underestimate how quickly drowning can occur, especially with young children.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that drowning is "the number one cause of death among young children," with around 4,000 unintentional deaths every year.
ER doctors stress the importance of constant supervision near any body of water—even bathtubs.
"Ensuring a pool is maintained to a good standard with safety measures in place such as gates and giving children water safety lessons can help reduce the risk," says Dr. Wen.
And if you’re watching kids in the pool? No drinking or drugs—stay alert.
If you want to know more everyday activities that land thousands of people in the ER, read here.
Read next: Discover the hidden safety secrets of airplanes: 6 mysterious features that could save your life
