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
Use emergency services if UTI symptoms occur with confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, or extreme drowsiness.
These can be signs of a severe infection 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 urgent same-day medical assessment for:
Fever with pain in the back or side
UTI symptoms with vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down
Fever or unusual illness in a baby
Much less urine than usual
New or worsening swelling
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical follow-up if you or your child has repeated UTIs, known VUR, persistently foamy urine, swelling, or blood pressure readings that remain high.
Follow-up is also important after reflux has resolved if kidney scars are already present.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Reflux nephropathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.