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 help now if you have symptoms that could indicate a stroke or a severe heart complication, including:
Sudden weakness or numbness on one side
New trouble speaking, seeing, or walking
Severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, or chest pressure
Fainting, collapse, or new severe confusion
A cold, pale, very painful arm or leg
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 urgent same-day medical assessment for an unexplained persistent fever, especially if you have an artificial valve, previous endocarditis, congenital heart condition, implanted heart device, or recent bloodstream infection.
If you are being treated for endocarditis, contact your treatment team promptly about a returning fever, worsening breathlessness, new swelling, a new rash, reduced urine, severe diarrhoea, or problems with an intravenous line.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Gradually improving tiredness can be discussed at routine follow-up.
Keep scheduled blood tests and heart scans even if you feel better, because valve damage or medication effects may not cause obvious early symptoms.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Culture-negative endocarditis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.