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 memory loss or confusion begins suddenly, especially with:
Face drooping, arm weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking
A severe new headache, collapse, or loss of consciousness
A seizure
Difficulty walking, seeing, or staying awake
A recent significant head injury
Sudden inability to form new memories also needs immediate assessment, even if the person remains awake and can speak normally.
Some temporary memory syndromes are not dangerous, but similar symptoms can occur with stroke or seizures.
And for anyone, someone who:
has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
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 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 care for a rapid change in memory or behaviour, particularly with fever, severe illness, hallucinations, marked drowsiness, or inability to manage basic needs.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if memory problems keep returning, are getting worse, concern someone close to you, or affect work, medication use, cooking, driving, finances, or other daily activities.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Memory loss. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.