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:
Severe trouble breathing
A sudden or marked increase in blue or grey colour
Fainting, collapse or difficulty waking
New weakness on one side, facial drooping or trouble speaking
Severe chest pain, especially with sweating or breathlessness
A baby who is blue, struggling to breathe or unable to feed
If a child has an established care plan, follow its emergency instructions while seeking help.
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
Contact the congenital heart team promptly for a new fast or irregular heartbeat, increasing shortness of breath, reduced exercise ability, rapid weight gain, persistent cough, abdominal swelling or swelling of the legs and ankles.
Fever with unexplained tiredness or worsening heart symptoms also needs prompt advice.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate when symptoms are stable and no new concerns have appeared.
Keep scheduled appointments even if you or your child feels well.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tricuspid atresia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.