Creeping eruption: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Use emergency services for difficulty breathing, fainting, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

   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
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice if:

   • The rash is close to an eye or affects vision
   • Pain, warmth, pus, or rapidly spreading redness develops
   • You have a fever or feel generally unwell
   • Itching prevents sleep
   • Symptoms continue or worsen after treatment
   • You are pregnant, breastfeeding, or seeking treatment for a young child

   These are not usual symptoms of creeping eruption but may indicate a serious allergic reaction or another urgent condition.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop an intensely itchy, winding track, especially after travel or contact with sand or soil.

   Seek assessment if an unexplained rash moves, spreads, or does not improve.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

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