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 for:
New weakness or numbness in both legs
Loss of bladder or bowel control with back pain
Severe confusion, collapse, or difficulty staying awake
Repeated vomiting with marked thirst, weakness, or dehydration
Breathing difficulty caused by a rapidly enlarging neck or jaw swelling
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 urgent assessment for sudden severe bone pain, inability to use a limb, or a visible change in limb shape after an injury.
These can indicate a fracture.
These symptoms may reflect spinal pressure, severe calcium imbalance, or another serious problem requiring prompt assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical review if you develop persistent bone pain, unexplained muscle weakness, loss of height, a new bony swelling, or a fracture after a minor injury.
Review is also important if you have known hyperparathyroidism or chronic kidney disease and your symptoms are changing.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Osteitis fibrosa. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.