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 for severe difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, collapse, new confusion, a seizure, or difficulty waking.
In a child, pauses in breathing, grunting or the skin pulling in deeply between the ribs are also emergency signs.
A lingering cough that is slowly improving does not usually require emergency care.
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
Arrange prompt medical assessment if you have a persistent cough with fever, chest discomfort or shortness of breath.
Seek advice sooner for a young child, an older adult, someone who is pregnant, or anyone with a weakened immune system or long-term heart or lung condition.
Get same-day medical help if:
Breathing is becoming more difficult
Fever persists, returns or is accompanied by worsening symptoms
You cannot drink enough or are passing much less urine
Symptoms worsen after starting treatment
A child is feeding poorly, unusually sleepy or working harder to breathe
You develop a widespread rash, mouth sores or yellowing of the skin
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine follow-up if it stops improving, interferes greatly with daily life or lasts longer than expected.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Mycoplasma pneumonia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.