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Warning-sign checks

Erysipeloid: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Call emergency services for severe shortness of breath, confusion, fainting, blue or grey skin, severe chest pain, or difficulty staying awake.

    These symptoms can occur with a serious bloodstream infection or another medical emergency.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Arrange a prompt medical assessment if a painful purple-red patch develops after handling fish, shellfish, meat, animals, or animal products.

    Seek advice sooner if the patch is expanding or movement of a nearby finger or joint is becoming painful.

    Contact a healthcare service urgently if you have:

    • Fever, chills, or marked weakness
    • Several new skin lesions
    • Rapidly increasing swelling or pain
    • Symptoms that worsen despite antibiotics
    • A weakened immune system and a possible infected wound
    • A known heart valve problem and signs of infection
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up is appropriate if the lesion is steadily improving but has not completely faded.

    Follow-up is also useful if movement remains limited or symptoms return after treatment.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Erysipeloid. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.