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 someone is very difficult to wake, has severe breathing difficulty, has a seizure lasting longer than expected for them, or develops possible stroke symptoms such as facial drooping, one-sided weakness, or sudden difficulty speaking.
Emergency help is also needed after a serious accident or if there is an immediate risk of self-harm.
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 for:
A sudden major change from the usual sleep pattern
New confusion, hallucinations, fever, or unusual agitation
Repeated falls or episodes of falling asleep without warning
Loud snoring, choking, or repeated pauses in breathing during sleep
Symptoms beginning soon after a medicine was started or changed
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if sleep is repeatedly scattered across the day and night, especially when it interferes with daily activities, safety, work, school, or caregiving.
Assessment is also appropriate if the pattern is new, follows a brain injury, or occurs alongside memory or behaviour changes.
Arrange safe transport and seek timely medical advice.
The article also says
Do not drive or operate machinery if you are struggling to stay awake.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Irregular sleep-wake syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.