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
Get emergency medical help for:
New loss of bladder or bowel control
Inability to urinate with increasing lower abdominal discomfort
New numbness around the genitals, buttocks, or inner thighs
Rapidly worsening leg weakness or inability to walk
Severe back pain with fever, confusion, or recent serious infection
These symptoms do not always mean arachnoiditis has worsened.
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 medical advice for new urinary difficulty, repeated urinary infections, worsening constipation, new sexual dysfunction, frequent falls, or a noticeable decline in leg strength.
They can signal spinal nerve compression or infection that needs urgent assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop persistent burning or shooting pain, unexplained numbness, muscle spasms, weakness, or changes in walking.
Assessment is also appropriate if known symptoms are gradually worsening or interfering with sleep and daily activities.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Spinal arachnoiditis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.