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 severe breathlessness, blue or grey lips, new confusion, fainting, severe chest pain, or an inability to speak in full sentences.
Do not drive yourself if you are severely unwell.
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
If you have diagnosed IPF, contact your care team promptly about:
Gradually worsening breathlessness or cough
Lower oxygen readings than your agreed usual range
New fever, mucus, or other signs of infection
Unplanned weight loss or difficulty eating
Medicine side effects
Increasing difficulty with normal daily activities
Seek urgent medical help for a marked or rapid change in breathing over hours or days.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical advice if you develop an unexplained cough or breathlessness that persists, especially if it limits activity.
These symptoms have many possible causes and need an appropriate assessment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.