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 care for a non-fading rash accompanied by fever, confusion, marked drowsiness, breathing difficulty, a stiff neck, or rapid worsening.
A non-fading rash can have causes other than rheumatic purpura, including serious infection.
Emergency assessment is also appropriate for:
Severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
Vomiting blood, black stool, or substantial blood in stool
Fainting, severe weakness, or signs of heavy bleeding
Difficulty breathing or coughing up blood
A seizure, sudden weakness, or a severe unusual headache
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 urgent medical advice the same day for markedly reduced urine, visible blood in the urine, new facial or leg swelling, repeated vomiting, or severe scrotal pain and swelling.
A new unexplained non-fading rash should be assessed promptly, even if you otherwise feel well.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
If rheumatic purpura has already been diagnosed, arrange routine review for a returning rash, ongoing joint pain, or missed urine and blood pressure checks.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Rheumatic purpura. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.