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 for symptoms that may mean severe anemia, reduced oxygen delivery, or a serious transfusion reaction:
Severe or rapidly worsening shortness of breath
Chest pain, fainting, new confusion, or extreme weakness
Blue, grey, or very pale lips or skin
Very little urine, severe back pain, or rapidly darkening urine
Fever, chills, breathing difficulty, or pain during a blood transfusion
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
If symptoms begin during a transfusion, tell the healthcare staff immediately.
Do not wait for the transfusion to finish.
Arrange urgent same-day assessment for new jaundice, dark urine, marked tiredness, a racing heartbeat, or worsening breathlessness, particularly if you have a known blood disorder or recently had a transfusion.
Fever also needs prompt assessment if you have no spleen, reduced spleen function, or a care plan that identifies fever as urgent.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up remains important after symptoms improve.
Blood tests may be needed to confirm that hemolysis has stopped, anemia is recovering, and no kidney or transfusion-related complications have developed.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hemolytic crisis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.