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 trouble breathing, choking that does not clear, blue or grey lips, chest pain, fainting, or an inability to swallow saliva.
These symptoms need immediate assessment rather than routine follow-up.
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 healthcare team promptly if you have:
New or worsening cough or breathlessness
Increasing difficulty swallowing or repeated coughing during meals
Rapidly worsening weakness or more frequent falls
Fever or signs of infection while taking immune-suppressing medicine
New lumps, unexplained bleeding, or persistent unplanned weight loss
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop a persistent rash over the eyelids, knuckles, chest, or shoulders, especially if it occurs with new muscle weakness.
Also seek assessment for gradually increasing difficulty climbing stairs, lifting your arms, or getting out of a chair.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Dermatomyositis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.