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Warning-sign checks

Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: 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 breathlessness at rest, blue or grey lips, confusion, fainting, or an inability to speak in full sentences.

    Sudden chest pain or rapidly worsening breathing also needs emergency 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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if diagnosed symptoms are worsening, normal activities are becoming harder, fever persists, or your oxygen reading is lower than the range set for you.

    A new fever or productive cough during immune-suppressing treatment may indicate an infection rather than a flare.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have a cough or breathlessness that persists, especially if it changes between home, work, or time away.

    Mention bird contact, water damage, mold, farming, hot tubs, and dusty or chemical work.

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