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Warning-sign checks

Atherosclerosis: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    These symptoms need assessment but are not always emergencies.

    Use emergency services for possible heart attack or stroke symptoms, fainting with chest discomfort, sudden severe shortness of breath, or a limb that suddenly becomes painful, pale, cold, numb, or weak.

    Do not drive yourself when emergency symptoms are present.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact a clinician promptly for new or worsening chest discomfort with activity, a clear reduction in walking distance, foot pain at rest, a wound that is not healing, or medicine side effects.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is used to review blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, symptoms, physical activity, tobacco use, and how medicines are working.

    Blood tests may be repeated after treatment changes or at intervals chosen by the clinician.

    People who have had a stent, bypass operation, stroke, heart attack, or limb procedure may need follow-up with one or more specialists.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Atherosclerosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.