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, especially during activity or with heart palpitations
Severe or sudden shortness of breath
Chest pain that is new, severe, or does not settle
A sustained very fast or irregular heartbeat with dizziness
Signs of stroke, such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or speech difficulty
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
These symptoms can have causes other than EDMD, but they need urgent assessment.
Seek prompt medical advice for new palpitations, near-fainting, worsening breathlessness, leg swelling, or a clear drop in exercise ability.
Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are worsening.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up should include planned heart monitoring even when you feel well.
At regular appointments, mention increasing falls, pain, joint tightening, sleep-related breathing symptoms, or difficulty with daily activities so support can be adjusted.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on EDMD. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.