Warning-sign checks
Erythema nodosum: 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 911Get urgent or emergency help if you have difficulty breathing, cough up blood, faint, develop severe chest pain, or become seriously unwell.
These are not typical features of uncomplicated erythema nodosum and may point to another condition needing immediate assessment.
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 todaySeek prompt medical advice if:
- The nodules are not improving after several weeks
- New nodules keep appearing or episodes repeatedly return
- You have ongoing fever, cough, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, or weight loss
- A joint becomes very swollen or difficult to move
- The skin breaks down, blisters, drains pus, or becomes rapidly more painful
- Symptoms began soon after starting a new medicine
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentArrange a routine appointment if you develop new tender lumps beneath the skin, especially if they are on both shins.
Other conditions can look similar, and an examination can help identify whether tests are needed.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Erythema nodosum. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.