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
Get emergency help if you develop confusion, fainting, severe weakness, difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, or rapidly worsening illness.
These can be signs of sepsis or another serious problem.
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 same-day medical advice if you have breast pain or redness with fever, chills, or worsening flu-like symptoms.
You should also arrange prompt assessment if:
Symptoms are severe or getting worse
Supportive care has not produced improvement within 24 to 48 hours
You have a painful lump that persists or feels fluid-filled
Pus is draining from the nipple or breast
Symptoms return after treatment
You are taking antibiotics but are not improving after about 48 hours
Redness, skin thickening, or a lump remains after the expected recovery period
A baby who is unusually sleepy, difficult to wake, feeding poorly, or producing fewer wet nappies also needs prompt medical assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate if you are improving but still have questions about supply, oversupply, pumping, nipple pain, or preventing another episode.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Lactation mastitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.