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 difficulty breathing, confusion, fainting, blue or grey lips, or an inability to speak in full sentences.
These signs may indicate dangerously low oxygen or another serious problem.
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 prompt same-day medical advice for:
Fever with a new or worsening cough
New mucus, especially if blood-stained
Chest pain when breathing
A clear drop in home oxygen readings from your usual range
Breathlessness that is worsening faster than usual
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical review if you have gradually increasing breathlessness, a persistent cough, declining exercise tolerance or difficulty carrying out your usual activities.
If you already have PAP, report a steady change rather than waiting for the next planned appointment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.