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Warning-sign checks

Arterial embolism: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    These visits are important, but they are different from emergency care.

    Call emergency services for another sudden cold or numb limb, stroke symptoms, sudden vision loss, severe abdominal pain, chest pain, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding, vomiting blood, or black or bloody stool.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical advice for a worsening wound, increasing limb pain, fever after a procedure, or new medication-related concerns.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up care aims to support recovery and prevent another embolism.

    The plan may involve vascular surgery, cardiology, neurology, ophthalmology, or other specialists, depending on the affected artery and the suspected source.

    Routine follow-up should also address smoking, blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, physical activity, and heart-rhythm management.

The article also says

Appointments may include checks of circulation, wound healing, strength, sensation, kidney function, and recovery of the affected organ.

Rehabilitation may include physical, occupational, speech, or vision-related therapy.

Medicines should be reviewed regularly.

Some anticoagulants like warfarin or apixaban require blood testing, while others require monitoring of kidney function, medication interactions, and bleeding symptoms.

Take these medicines exactly as directed and ask before using nonprescription pain relievers, supplements, or herbal products.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Arterial embolism. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.