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
Sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, or swelling that affects eye movement requires emergency assessment.
These symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated meibomianitis and may point to another eye 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 prompt, same-day medical help for:
Increasing eye pain rather than mild eyelid soreness
Strong sensitivity to light
A marked drop in vision
Redness spreading beyond the eyelid
Significant swelling, fever, or feeling unwell
A painful red eye while wearing contact lenses
An eye injury or chemical exposure
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine eye assessment if symptoms are persistent, keep returning, interfere with contact lens wear, or do not improve with gentle eyelid care.
You should also arrange an assessment for a recurring or long-lasting eyelid lump.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Meibomianitis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.