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 fainting, severe breathing difficulty, confusion, a seizure, chest pain, strong or irregular heartbeats, sudden inability to move a limb, or rapidly worsening whole-body weakness.
These symptoms may signal severe acidosis, a dangerous potassium disturbance, or another emergency.
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 same-day advice if you have proximal RTA and:
Cannot keep fluids or treatment down because of vomiting
Develop worsening weakness, cramps, or unusual sleepiness
Pass much less urine than usual
Have signs of dehydration, such as dizziness and a very dry mouth
Miss several doses of alkali or mineral replacement
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have ongoing unexplained weakness, increased thirst or urination, bone pain, or repeated abnormal bicarbonate or potassium results.
Children should be assessed if growth slows, weight gain is poor, or bone shape changes become noticeable.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Proximal renal tubular acidosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.