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 breathlessness, especially at rest or with difficulty speaking
New or severe chest pain
Fainting or collapse
Blue or grey lips or skin
Sudden weakness, facial drooping, speech difficulty, or loss of vision
A rapid or irregular heartbeat with chest pain, faintness, or severe breathlessness
If someone is unresponsive and not breathing normally, call emergency services and begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation if you are able.
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
If you have dilated cardiomyopathy, contact your usual care team promptly if symptoms become more frequent, swelling increases, or your weight rises quickly over a few days.
Also seek advice after new fainting, persistent palpitations, or a clear reduction in your ability to perform normal activities.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical review for ongoing breathlessness, ankle swelling, unusual tiredness, or repeated palpitations.
These symptoms have many possible causes but need assessment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Dilated cardiomyopathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.