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 emergency care for sudden bladder loss or inability to urinate together with new leg weakness, numbness around the genitals or buttocks, or loss of bowel control.
These can be signs of serious pressure on the nerves at the bottom of the spine.
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 a prompt appointment if you also have pain when urinating, repeated urinary infections, difficulty starting urine, a weak stream, or a persistent feeling that the bladder is not empty.
Get urgent medical help if you:
Cannot urinate despite a painful or increasingly swollen lower abdomen
Have visible blood in your urine
Have fever, chills, vomiting, or pain in your side or back with urinary symptoms
Develop new incontinence after a significant injury to your back or pelvis
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop urinary leakage, even if it is mild.
Assessment can identify the type and check for treatable causes.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Urinary incontinence. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.