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 a limb or digit that suddenly becomes very painful, pale or blue, cold, numb, or weak.
Sudden inability to move the affected area also needs emergency assessment.
These signs can mean a severe, abrupt loss of blood flow.
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, same-day care for:
A new or worsening ulcer
Increasing rest pain
Spreading redness, warmth, swelling, or discharge around a wound
Fever or feeling unwell with a hand or foot wound
Black or clearly dead-looking skin
It is not a substitute for urgent assessment when circulation changes suddenly.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop repeated color changes, coldness, pain during walking or hand use, or a sore on a finger or toe that is not healing.
These symptoms have several possible causes and need proper assessment.
Routine follow-up remains important even when symptoms are stable.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Thromboangiitis obliterans. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.