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 now for a deficit that begins suddenly, especially:
Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg
Symptoms affecting one side of the body
New trouble speaking, understanding, seeing, walking, or balancing
A severe, sudden headache with neurologic symptoms
A seizure followed by persistent weakness or reduced awareness
Symptoms after a significant head, neck, or back injury
Also seek emergency help for new leg weakness with numbness around the buttocks or genitals, loss of bladder or bowel control, or inability to pass urine.
These can indicate serious pressure on nerves at the bottom of the spine.
Do not drive yourself if stroke or another emergency is possible.
Note when the person was last known to be functioning normally.
And for anyone, someone who:
has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
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 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 symptoms to pass.
Arrange same-day medical advice for a new deficit that is developing gradually, worsening, or affecting walking or use of a limb.
Fever with new weakness, confusion, or severe headache also needs urgent assessment.
And for anyone, someone who:
has a new severe headache unlike any they have had before
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Book a routine appointment if mild numbness, weakness, or clumsiness persists, keeps returning, or has no clear explanation.
Repeatedly dropping objects, tripping, or losing feeling in the feet also deserves review.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Neurologic deficit. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.