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 trouble breathing, fainting, severe chest pain, or signs of a severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or throat.
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:
Increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or pain
Fever or chills
Pus or unpleasant-smelling drainage
Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
New numbness, weakness, or colour change beyond the biopsy area
A dressing becoming repeatedly soaked with blood
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine questions, contact the team if pain is not gradually improving, you are unsure about dressings or activity, or you have not received results within the timeframe you were given.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Synovial biopsy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.