Radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain: when to get help
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
Seek emergency help for trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, chest pain, fainting, rapidly worsening weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin.
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 the procedure team promptly if you have increasing redness, warmth, swelling, drainage, or worsening pain at the needle site.
Also call for a fever, persistent vomiting, a severe headache, or new numbness or weakness that is not settling as expected.
Do not wait for a routine appointment for these symptoms.
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Mild soreness or a temporary pain flare can be part of routine recovery.
Mention symptoms that persist, interfere with activity, or concern you during follow-up.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a symptom that has lasted more than a couple of weeks without improving
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.