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 trouble breathing, severe chest pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, or rapidly increasing neck swelling.
These symptoms are uncommon but need immediate assessment.
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
Seek prompt medical advice if you develop:
Increasing pain, swelling, warmth, or redness
Pus or other unusual drainage
Fever or chills
Bleeding that continues despite firm pressure
A rapidly enlarging lump near the needle site
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine follow-up, contact the team if you have questions about dressing care, activity, pain relief, or when to expect results.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Fine-needle aspiration. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.