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
Go to an emergency department immediately if there is:
Reduced, blurred, or double vision
Pain or difficulty when moving the eye
An eye that appears to bulge forward
Severe headache, repeated vomiting, unusual sleepiness, or confusion
Rapidly increasing swelling or severe pain
A person who appears seriously unwell
Swelling so severe that the eye cannot be properly assessed
Call emergency services if the person is difficult to wake, collapses, has a seizure, develops severe breathing difficulty, or becomes suddenly confused.
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 same-day medical assessment for a new red, hot, tender, or swollen eyelid, particularly when there is fever or the swelling affects only one eye.
Children with suspected periorbital cellulitis should be assessed promptly because it can be difficult to distinguish it from a deeper infection at home.
If treatment has already started, contact the treating service promptly if symptoms are worsening or have not begun to improve within the expected review period.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Keep any planned follow-up even if the eye looks better.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Periorbital cellulitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.