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 sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, fainting, or severe confusion.
These symptoms can be associated with a blood clot in the lungs or a serious infection and need immediate assessment.
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 care if:
Redness, warmth, swelling, or pain is spreading quickly
You have fever or feel significantly unwell with a leg wound
The ulcer develops pus, a bad smell, or rapidly increasing drainage
The skin becomes black, or the foot becomes cold, pale, or numb
There is sudden major swelling or pain in one leg
Bleeding from an ulcer does not stop with firm pressure
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you develop ongoing lower-leg swelling, itching, discoloration, or thickened skin.
A new open sore should also be assessed, even if it is small.
Early care can help limit skin damage and identify the type of circulation problem.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Stasis dermatitis and ulcers. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.