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Warning-sign checks

Nonallergic rhinopathy: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for sudden difficulty breathing, swelling of the tongue or throat, fainting, or widespread hives.

    These may indicate a serious allergic reaction or another emergency rather than nonallergic rhinopathy.

    Heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure also requires emergency help.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • 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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical care for severe facial pain, swelling around an eye, a high fever with worsening nasal symptoms, vision changes, or a severe headache.

    Clear fluid draining continuously from one nostril after a head injury or nasal surgery also needs urgent assessment.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Make a routine medical appointment if nasal blockage or drainage lasts for several weeks, repeatedly affects sleep or daily life, or does not improve with reasonable self-care.

    You should also arrange an assessment for frequent nosebleeds, reduced smell, ongoing cough, or symptoms that are mainly on one side.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Nonallergic rhinopathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.