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 stroke-like symptoms, a seizure lasting several minutes, loss of consciousness, severe breathing difficulty, or intense chest pain.
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
If you have been treated for Whipple disease, contact your care team promptly if previous symptoms return or if you develop new problems with memory, walking, vision, or coordination.
Do not wait for a scheduled follow-up visit.
Seek urgent medical care for:
New confusion, marked behavior change, or a seizure
Sudden weakness, facial drooping, speech trouble, or loss of balance
Fainting, severe shortness of breath, or rapidly increasing swelling
New severe eye pain or sudden loss of vision
Inability to keep fluids down or signs of severe dehydration
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have persistent unexplained diarrhea, weight loss, abdominal pain, or recurring joint pain, especially when more than one of these is present.
These symptoms are much more often caused by other conditions, but they deserve assessment when they continue.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Whipple disease. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.