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 for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, inability to speak because of breathlessness, or choking that blocks breathing.
Sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, severe chest pain, or loss of consciousness also needs emergency care and should not be assumed to be PPS.
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 medical advice if you have:
New coughing or choking during meals
Unexplained weight loss or repeated chest infections
Increasing shortness of breath
Morning headaches, severe daytime sleepiness, or disturbed sleep
A cough that has become too weak to clear mucus
A rapid change in strength or walking ability
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical assessment if you develop new weakness, worsening fatigue, increasing pain, repeated falls, or a clear decline in activities you previously managed.
These changes may be related to PPS, but other treatable conditions should be considered.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Post-polio syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.