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
Seek urgent or emergency care for:
Severe or rapidly worsening difficulty breathing
Fainting, confusion, or extreme weakness
Signs of severe dehydration, such as very little urine or inability to keep fluids down
Vomiting blood, black stools, or heavy rectal bleeding
Severe chest pain or a sudden major decline in your condition
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
If you already have protein-losing enteropathy, contact your care team promptly if swelling is increasing, your weight changes quickly, diarrhea becomes more frequent, or you are eating and drinking less than usual.
Reduced urination, repeated infections, or new shortness of breath also need prompt advice.
These symptoms are not typical of stable protein-losing enteropathy and may indicate a serious complication or another urgent condition.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop persistent leg or facial swelling, ongoing diarrhea, unexplained weight loss, increasing abdominal size, or unusual fatigue.
These symptoms have many possible causes and need assessment rather than self-diagnosis.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Protein-losing enteropathy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.