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
Call emergency services for chest pressure that is severe or does not settle, severe difficulty breathing, fainting, or symptoms of a stroke such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or trouble speaking.
Routine monitoring and emergency care serve different purposes.
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
Seek urgent medical advice if you have:
New or worsening chest discomfort
Palpitations accompanied by dizziness
Breathlessness that is becoming noticeably worse
Unexplained fever with ongoing tiredness or shortness of breath
New symptoms after a fistula closure procedure
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you develop mild but persistent breathlessness, reduced exercise tolerance, new palpitations, or swelling in your legs or abdomen.
These symptoms have many possible causes, but they should be assessed if they are new or changing.
If you feel well, attend planned follow-up rather than waiting for symptoms.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Coronary artery fistula. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.