Bleeding into the skin: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Call emergency services if you have a new non-blanching rash and are very unwell, especially with fever, confusion, unusual sleepiness, a stiff neck, breathing difficulty, fainting, or rapidly spreading spots.

   Emergency care is also appropriate for:

   • Bleeding that will not stop with firm pressure
   • Vomiting blood or passing a large amount of blood
   • Severe headache, vomiting, confusion, or weakness after a head injury
   • Extensive bruising after a serious injury
   • Signs of severe blood loss, such as fainting or marked breathlessness

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   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 has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Do not wait for every symptom to appear.

   Seek same-day medical advice for new, unexplained, or widespread pinpoint spots, even if you otherwise feel well.

   Get prompt advice if marks occur with repeated nosebleeds, bleeding gums, blood in urine or stool, unusually heavy periods, or large unexplained bruises.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Book a routine appointment if bruising keeps returning, becomes more frequent, or takes longer than expected to fade.

   Mention any family history of unusual bleeding.

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • has noticed a lump, a mole that has changed, or unexplained weight loss
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

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