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
Get urgent or emergency help for:
Chest pain
Severe difficulty breathing, especially at rest
Fainting or new confusion
Vomiting blood
Heavy bleeding that will not stop
Black, tar-like stool with weakness, dizziness, or abdominal pain
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 prompt medical advice if you notice blood in your stool, ongoing black or tar-like stool when you are not taking iron, blood in your urine, unexplained weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or a clear change in bowel habits.
These symptoms have several possible causes, but they should not be ignored.
A fast heartbeat or worsening shortness of breath also needs prompt assessment, particularly if you have heart or lung problems.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have ongoing tiredness, reduced exercise tolerance, frequent headaches, pica, or other possible symptoms of anemia.
Testing is also appropriate if you have heavy periods, repeated blood donation, persistent digestive symptoms, or a history of low iron.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Iron deficiency anemia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.