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
Go to emergency care for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow saliva, rapidly increasing mouth or neck swelling, or bleeding that will not stop.
Leukoplakia itself rarely causes an emergency, so these signs may indicate another urgent 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
Do not wait for pain, because leukoplakia and early mouth cancer can both be painless.
Seek an urgent assessment if a patch:
Is growing or changing quickly
Develops a red, dark, lumpy, bleeding, or ulcerated area
Occurs with a new neck lump
Causes persistent pain, numbness, or trouble swallowing
Is accompanied by unexplained weight loss or ongoing hoarseness
These symptoms can have causes other than cancer, but they should not wait for a routine check-up.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a prompt, non-emergency appointment with a dentist or healthcare professional if you notice a white mouth patch that does not wipe off, especially if it remains for about two weeks.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Leukoplakia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.