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 fainting, confusion, difficulty waking, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, or almost no urine.
These can be signs of severe dehydration or another serious condition.
Mild symptoms that are improving usually do not require emergency care.
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
Arrange prompt medical advice if diarrhea is persistent, keeps returning, or is causing weight loss.
Testing is especially important if you have a weakened immune system, are pregnant, recently travelled, drank untreated water, or were part of a suspected outbreak.
Seek urgent medical care if you or a child:
Cannot keep fluids down
Is urinating much less than usual
Has no wet diapers for an unusually long time
Has a very dry mouth, no tears, or sunken eyes
Becomes dizzy when standing
Has severe or worsening abdominal pain
Has blood or black material in the stool
Has diarrhea with a significant or persistent fever
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up may be needed to review test results, confirm that hydration and weight are recovering, or manage return-to-work and childcare requirements.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Cryptosporidium enteritis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.