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 emergency medical help for:
Severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness
Fainting, especially during activity
New or persistent chest pain
Blue or grey lips or skin
Confusion or difficulty staying awake
Coughing up more than a small streak of blood
These changes need timely assessment but are not always emergencies.
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
These symptoms can indicate severe strain on the heart or another urgent problem.
Do not drive yourself if you feel faint or severely short of breath.
Contact your healthcare team promptly for increasing ankle or abdominal swelling, rapid unexplained weight gain, new palpitations, reduced ability to manage usual activities, or worsening breathlessness.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine appointments remain important even when symptoms are stable.
They allow treatment to be adjusted before problems become more noticeable.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Pulmonary hypertension. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.