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 urgent or emergency care for:
Chest pain, breathing difficulty, rapid breathing, or blue or grey lips
Stroke signs, such as facial drooping, one-sided weakness, confusion, trouble speaking, or a sudden severe headache
Severe pain that is not controlled by the agreed home plan
A painful erection that continues or keeps returning
Fainting, unusual sleepiness, or difficulty waking
Sudden abdominal swelling, marked paleness, or weakness, especially in a child
Fever with severe illness, breathing problems, neck stiffness, or reduced alertness
Emergency symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.
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
New vision changes, swelling, reduced urination, or ongoing shortness of breath also need prompt assessment.
Fever can be the first sign of a serious infection, especially in children, and usually requires urgent medical assessment.
And for anyone, someone who:
is vomiting and cannot keep fluids down
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine follow-up if pain is becoming more frequent, fatigue is worsening, medicines are causing problems, or symptoms are interfering with sleep, school, work, or daily activities.
The article also says
Follow your sickle cell care plan for fever.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Sickle cell disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.