Warning-sign checks
Gingivostomatitis: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing, collapse, a seizure, confusion, inability to wake normally, or signs of severe dehydration.
A newborn with fever, blisters, marked sleepiness, or poor feeding also needs immediate medical 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 todaySeek prompt medical advice for widespread painful mouth ulcers, especially with fever or swollen, bleeding gums.
Early assessment may matter because antiviral treatment is used only in selected cases and works best when started early.
Get same-day medical help for:
- Very little drinking or inability to swallow fluids
- Much less urine, dry mouth, no tears, or increasing sleepiness
- Severe pain not controlled by suitable pain relief
- A weakened immune system
- A new widespread blistering rash, especially over eczema
- Eye redness, pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision
- Symptoms that worsen after initially improving
- Sores that have not healed after about two to three weeks
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Gingivostomatitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.