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
Go to an emergency department immediately for new loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the genitals or anus, or rapidly worsening leg weakness.
These can be signs of cauda equina syndrome.
Sudden paralysis, severe weakness, or symptoms beginning after a major injury also require emergency care.
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 if you develop:
New or increasing weakness in an arm or leg
Worsening balance, repeated falls, or new hand clumsiness
A major reduction in how far you can walk
New difficulty starting urination or fully emptying your bladder
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if back or neck symptoms persist, repeatedly limit walking, disturb sleep, or interfere with normal activities.
Assessment is also appropriate for ongoing numbness, tingling, or pain spreading into an arm or leg.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Spinal stenosis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.