Emergency Care

Getting treatment for an overdose

Overdosing is taking too much of a substance. They can be intentional or accidental and are often caused by alcohol or drugs, including illegal drugs or prescription or over-the-counter medicine.

Overdoses are a leading cause of death for Americans between ages 35 and 54. Risk factors increasing the likelihood of overdose include:

  • Heavy drug use over a short period of time
  • Mixing or combining different kinds of drugs and alcohol
  • Injection drug use
  • Depression and other mental health issues
  • History of overdose
  • Using drugs or drinking alcohol alone

With the latest technologies and an experienced team, Goshen Hospital Emergency Department is equipped to treat all types of overdose in Goshen, IN. If you or someone near you has overdosed, call 911 or go to our emergency room on High Park Avenue.

Recognizing overdose symptoms

The signs of overdose depend on the kind of substance. Mild symptoms are slurred speech, drowsiness and unsteadiness.

Severe overdose symptoms include:

  • Breathing problems
  • Delusions or hallucinations
  • Vomiting
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Unconsciousness

Call 911 or find your nearest emergency room for severe symptoms

What to do while waiting for emergency overdose treatment

If you are with someone who has overdosed, call 911 and follow these tips until medical personnel arrives:

  • Stay with the person.
  • Try to determine what substance the person took.
  • Don’t let them take more of the substance.
  • If the person is aggressive or out of control, don’t put your own safety at risk.
  • If the person is unconscious, check their pulse and breathing. Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is in constant contact with Goshen Hospital Emergency Department, so we are prepared for your arrival. Our board certified emergency providers can quickly provide treatment to flush the toxins out of the body and prevent other complications.

Serving Elkhart County, Goshen Hospital Emergency Department offers expert care for overdose in Goshen, IN.