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
Seek emergency help if eating is followed by trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, collapse, or choking that the person cannot clear.
Sudden swelling of the lips or tongue, widespread hives, wheezing, or faintness after food may be a serious allergic reaction and also needs emergency care.
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
Arrange same-day medical advice if the person is taking very little food or fluid and has signs of dehydration.
These include very dark or infrequent urine, a dry mouth, unusual sleepiness, dizziness, or no tears when crying.
Repeated vomiting, severe pain, or being unable to swallow liquids also needs prompt assessment.
Routine follow-up is also reasonable when a jag does not improve and self-care approaches are not helping, even if there are no urgent symptoms.
And for anyone, someone who:
is vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if:
Weight is falling or expected growth is slowing
The accepted-food list continues to narrow
Whole food groups are regularly avoided
Meals cause ongoing fear, distress, gagging, coughing, or pain
Eating difficulties interfere with school, work, travel, or family life
You are concerned about nutrient deficiencies or extreme tiredness
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Food jags. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.