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 collapse, severe breathing difficulty, sudden chest or abdominal pain, or signs of shock such as cold, clammy skin with confusion.
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 have already been diagnosed, contact your care team promptly for returning pain, reduced urine output, leg swelling, fever, or worsening treatment side effects.
Seek urgent medical help if you have:
Very little or no urine
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal, back, or side pain
Fever with chills, vomiting, or pain near the kidneys
New confusion, fainting, marked weakness, or difficulty staying awake
A nephrostomy tube that stops draining, comes out, or is accompanied by fever
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical review if you develop persistent back, side, or abdominal pain; unexplained weight loss; ongoing tiredness; or a lasting change in urination.
These symptoms often have other causes, but they deserve assessment.
Keep planned appointments for blood tests, scans, and tube or stent care even when you feel well.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Retroperitoneal inflammation. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.