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
Seek emergency care for severe breathlessness, confusion, fainting, chest pain, or very little urine with rapidly increasing swelling.
A sudden painful red eye, sudden loss of vision, or severe blurred vision with nausea also needs emergency eye assessment.
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
Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you notice:
Blood in your urine
New ankle or facial swelling
Persistently foamy urine
A clear reduction in urination
New headaches or blurred vision
Worsening blood pressure readings
Seek urgent medical help for a kneecap or other joint that has moved out of place, especially if the limb looks deformed, becomes numb, changes colour, or cannot bear weight.
Do not try to force it back into position.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you develop new joint pain, repeated kneecap slipping, reduced movement, numbness, swelling, or changes in your ability to walk or manage daily activities.
Also seek follow-up if routine kidney or eye checks are overdue.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on NPS. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.