Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency help for severe trouble breathing, new chest pain, fainting, confusion, rapidly increasing swelling, or heavy uncontrolled bleeding.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Contact your healthcare team promptly for increasing pain, redness, warmth, swelling, pus, fever, chills, continued fluid leakage, or bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure.
Also call if a drain stops working, falls out, or suddenly changes position.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
These are not routine recovery symptoms.
The article also says
Mild tenderness, a small bruise, and a little spotting on the dressing can be expected.
Use the contact instructions provided by your treating facility if you are unsure.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Aspiration. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.