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 sudden or severe difficulty breathing, noisy high-pitched breathing, or swelling that makes it difficult to swallow saliva.
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 prompt medical assessment if you have:
Rapid enlargement of the swelling
New or persistent hoarseness
Increasing difficulty swallowing
Significant neck pain or tenderness
A hard lump or enlarged lymph nodes in the neck
Symptoms suggesting an overactive or underactive thyroid
These signs can mean the airway is being narrowed and should not wait for a routine appointment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you notice a new swelling at the front of your neck, gradual thyroid enlargement, ongoing throat pressure, or a neck lump.
These findings often have noncancerous causes, but an examination is needed to identify what they represent.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Simple goiter. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.