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Warning-sign checks

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: 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, chest pain, a seizure, fainting, new confusion, or sudden weakness.

    These are emergency symptoms rather than issues to wait to discuss at a routine appointment.

    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

    Contact the hyperbaric team promptly for persistent ear or sinus pain, reduced hearing, ear drainage, new blurred vision, repeated low blood glucose, fever, congestion, or worsening wound symptoms.

The article also says

Mild tiredness or brief ear fullness can usually be mentioned at your next session if it is improving.

Tell staff before treatment if you are having trouble clearing your ears.

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