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 if you have:
Trouble breathing, shortness of breath, or a weak cough
Choking or inability to swallow saliva
Rapidly worsening weakness
Inability to stand or walk safely
Fainting, severe dizziness, or a very irregular heartbeat
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
Seek urgent same-day medical assessment for new weakness that is spreading, especially if it begins in both legs or follows a recent infection.
New difficulty walking, repeated falls, facial weakness, or trouble swallowing also needs urgent assessment.
If you are recovering at home, contact your healthcare team promptly if weakness returns, pain is not controlled, falls become more frequent, or eating and drinking become difficult.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate for persistent fatigue, numbness, mild stable weakness, mobility concerns, or help returning to work and exercise.
These issues are important but are not usually emergencies when they are stable.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Guillain-barre syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.