Warning-sign checks
Hot tub folliculitis: 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 911Seek emergency care for a rapidly worsening skin infection accompanied by a high fever, confusion, fainting, severe weakness or difficulty breathing.
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 todayContact a healthcare service promptly if you develop:
- Increasing redness, warmth or swelling around the rash
- A painful lump or a large amount of drainage
- Red streaks spreading away from the affected area
- Fever or worsening general illness
- A rash near the eyes or across a large area
- Symptoms while your immune system is weakened
These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated hot tub folliculitis and may indicate a serious infection or another urgent condition.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointmentArrange routine medical advice if the rash is not clearly improving after several days, remains after about two weeks, or keeps returning.
You should also seek advice if you are unsure what caused it or if the spots become increasingly painful.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hot tub folliculitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.