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Warning-sign checks

Granuloma annulare: 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

    Emergency care is appropriate if a rash occurs with difficulty breathing, swelling of the face or tongue, fainting, widespread blistering, or peeling involving the mouth or eyes.

    Those symptoms suggest a different and potentially serious reaction.

    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 rapidly increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus, worsening pain, or fever.

    These are not typical features of granuloma annulare and could suggest an infection or another condition.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you develop an unexplained ring-shaped rash.

    Several conditions can look similar, and ringworm requires different treatment.

    You should also seek routine medical advice if:

    • The bumps are widespread, itchy, painful, or affecting daily life
    • The areas have not improved or continue to multiply
    • A previously diagnosed area develops a different appearance
    • Treatment causes skin thinning, sores, marked colour change, or other concerns
    • You develop unexplained firm lumps under the skin

The article also says

Granuloma annulare itself is not an emergency.

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