Warning-sign checks
Bunion removal: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Seek emergency help for sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or severe difficulty breathing.
These may indicate a blood clot in the lungs.
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 todayContact the surgical team promptly if you develop:
- Increasing pain, redness, warmth, or swelling around the wound
- Pus, an unpleasant smell, or fluid soaking through the dressing
- Fever or feeling unwell with wound changes
- A dressing, cast, or boot that feels increasingly tight
- Toes that become pale, blue, cold, newly numb, or difficult to move
- New calf pain or one-sided calf swelling
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentDiscuss slow progress, stiffness, footwear, or return to activity at follow-up unless symptoms are rapidly worsening.
The article also says
Mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort are expected.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Bunion removal. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.