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
Get emergency help immediately for:
Choking, trouble breathing, collapse, a seizure, or severe confusion
Severe or worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or marked swelling
Blood in vomit or stool
Inability to pass stool or gas with abdominal pain
Swallowing a button battery, one or more magnets, or a sharp object
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 urgent medical advice after possible exposure to lead, pesticides, cleaning products, large amounts of medication, or contaminated material.
Contact your local poison information service if poisoning may have occurred.
Do not cause vomiting unless a poison specialist specifically tells you to.
Do not wait for symptoms after a battery or magnet has been swallowed.
Serious internal injury can begin before the person appears unwell.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you or someone you care for has repeatedly eaten non-food substances for a month or longer.
An earlier appointment is appropriate during pregnancy, in a child, or when there are symptoms of anaemia, dental damage, constipation, or weight and growth concerns.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pica. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.