When you’re dealing with an immediate and serious health concern, your top priority is getting the most effective care as quickly as possible. But what’s the best place to find that care?

Outside of obvious situations—like chest pain you think could be a heart attack—it can be confusing to know if you should get a ride to the emergency room or if you can head to your nearest urgent care.

Here’s exactly when you should get emergency medical attention and when you can find what you need at an urgent care facility—or even at a virtual appointment.

When to go to the ER
Emergency rooms are famous for their long wait times and expensive bills. But even if you’re motivated to avoid these inconveniences, it’s essential you go to the ER when it’s warranted.

Go to the ER or call 911 anytime your symptoms could be life-threatening, according to UChicago Medicine.

Experts say that if you or someone you are with is experiencing any of the following symptoms, you should go to an emergency department:

Symptoms of a heart attack: chest pain, pain in the arm or jaw, shortness of breath
Symptoms of a stroke: weakness on one side of the body, slurred speech, suddenly not being able to speak or see, weakness or drooping on one side of the body
Significant trauma or injury, especially to the head or neck
Severe lower abdominal pain
Severe allergic reaction
Serious burns
Heavy bleeding
Symptoms of sepsis: sudden confusion, high fever that does not get better with medicine
Stopped breathing