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
Seek emergency help for severe trouble breathing through the stoma, a stoma blockage that does not clear with your taught care plan, heavy bleeding, blue or grey skin, chest pain, or collapse.
After total laryngectomy, tell emergency responders that you are a “neck breather.” Oxygen must be delivered through the stoma.
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
Contact your surgical team promptly for:
Fever or increasing redness, warmth, swelling, or drainage
New fluid or saliva leaking from the neck wound
Worsening pain rather than gradual improvement
Increasing difficulty swallowing or keeping down fluids
A narrowing stoma or repeated mucus blockage
Voice-prosthesis leakage into the airway
New calf swelling, shortness of breath, or unexplained weakness
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Questions about supplies, mild skin irritation, rehabilitation, or appointment timing can usually be handled during routine contact with your care team.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Laryngectomy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.