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 breathing difficulty, swelling of the face or throat, chest pain, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding, a seizure, or difficulty waking.
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 your cancer team urgently for:
A fever at or above the threshold they gave you, often 38°C or 100.4°F
Shaking chills, new confusion, or feeling suddenly very unwell
Repeated vomiting, severe diarrhoea, or inability to keep fluids down
New bleeding, unusual bruising, or blood in urine or stool
Redness, swelling, leakage, or increasing pain around an IV or central line
New or worsening numbness, weakness, mouth sores, or reduced urination
Do not wait if symptoms are rapidly worsening.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Milder expected effects can usually be discussed through the routine advice line or at your next review.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Chemotherapy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.