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Warning-sign checks

Viral arthritis: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency medical care for a very painful, hot, swollen joint with fever, especially if you cannot move the joint or put weight on it.

    Emergency help is also appropriate for breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or a rapidly worsening widespread rash.

    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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    These symptoms may be caused by septic arthritis, which requires urgent testing and treatment.

    Seek prompt medical advice if you have joint symptoms together with:

    • Yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe abdominal pain
    • Persistent high fever or signs of dehydration
    • Unusual bleeding or bruising after travel to a dengue-risk area
    • A weakened immune system or a recent joint operation
    • Pregnancy and known or possible exposure to parvovirus B19
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    A routine appointment is appropriate for joint pain or swelling that follows an infection but is not severe.

    Arrange follow-up if symptoms are getting worse, interfering with daily activities, lasting for several weeks, or returning after they had improved.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Viral arthritis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.