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 breathing difficulty, choking that does not clear, blue or grey lips, sudden severe chest pain, or loss of consciousness.
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 your healthcare team promptly if diagnosed weakness is clearly worsening, swallowing becomes more difficult, you have repeated falls, or treatment causes concerning side effects.
Fever or other signs of infection also deserve prompt advice if you take immune-suppressing medicine.
Seek urgent medical care if you:
Cough or choke repeatedly when eating or drinking
Develop new or rapidly worsening shortness of breath
Cannot swallow liquids or keep yourself hydrated
Have new palpitations, marked dizziness, or fainting
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop gradually worsening difficulty climbing stairs, rising from a chair, lifting your arms, or completing usual tasks.
These symptoms have many possible causes and need proper assessment rather than self-diagnosis.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Polymyositis - adult. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.