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 help for trouble breathing, severe or persistent bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, a seizure, sudden weakness, loss of consciousness, or a major change in alertness.
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
Prompt assessment is appropriate if the mark:
Is close to an eye, nose, mouth, ear, airway, or lower spine
Grows quickly or becomes much thicker
Develops pain, warmth, crusting, discharge, or an open sore
Bleeds repeatedly
Affects feeding, vision, hearing, movement, or passing urine or stool
Is a large segment-shaped mark on the face or scalp
And for anyone, someone who:
has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if a red mark is newly noticed, its type is uncertain, or it is changing.
Early review is especially useful for a rapidly growing haemangioma in a young baby.
Routine colour changes or gradual growth in proportion with the body are not usually emergencies.
They can be discussed at a planned appointment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Red birthmarks. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.