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Warning-sign checks

Erythema multiforme: 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

    Call emergency services or go to an emergency department if you have trouble breathing, airway swelling, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, or signs of serious dehydration.

    Very little urine, marked dizziness, or being unable to keep fluids down can indicate dehydration.

    Emergency assessment is also appropriate for widespread blistering or peeling, severe eye pain, sudden vision changes, or extensive painful sores accompanied by significant illness.

    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

    Seek prompt medical assessment for a new target-shaped, painful, or blistering rash, especially if you recently started a medicine or have sores in your mouth, eyes, or genital area.

    Contact a healthcare service the same day if:

    • Mouth pain makes eating or drinking difficult
    • Your eyes are red, painful, light-sensitive, or producing discharge
    • Passing urine is painful or difficult
    • The rash is spreading quickly or your skin is becoming painful
    • You develop fever, pus, increasing swelling, or worsening redness

    These features may indicate severe erythema multiforme or another condition requiring urgent treatment.

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