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:
Severe difficulty breathing
Collapse, unresponsiveness, or a seizure
Blue or grey colouring that is sudden or much worse than usual
Chest pain with fainting, severe breathlessness, or a racing heartbeat
Sudden weakness, facial drooping, or trouble speaking
For a baby awaiting or recovering from surgery, follow the heart centre’s individual emergency plan.
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 the specialist team promptly if feeding falls sharply, breathing becomes faster, the baby is difficult to wake, there are fewer wet nappies, or oxygen readings move outside the advised range.
Arrange prompt medical review for new or increasing swelling, abdominal enlargement, unexplained weight gain, ongoing diarrhoea, worsening tiredness, reduced exercise tolerance, frequent palpitations, or a persistent cough.
These symptoms may indicate a circulation or Fontan-related problem.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Keep all routine congenital heart appointments, even when you or your child feels well.
Rhythm, heart, or liver changes may not cause early symptoms.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Double inlet left ventricle. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.