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 trouble breathing, inability to swallow saliva, choking that does not clear, blue or grey lips, sudden collapse, or severe chest pain.
These symptoms require immediate help regardless of whether myositis has been diagnosed.
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 have:
New coughing or choking while eating or drinking
Food repeatedly feeling stuck
Increasing breathlessness or a persistent dry cough
Rapidly worsening weakness
Fever or signs of infection while taking immune-suppressing medicine
Dark or cola-coloured urine with severe muscle pain or weakness
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop gradual, unexplained muscle weakness, especially if it affects climbing stairs, standing from a chair, lifting your arms, or gripping objects.
A new rash with weakness, repeated falls, persistent muscle pain, or ongoing fatigue also deserves assessment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Myositis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.