Call 995 immediately if someone is gasping, struggling to get words out because they cannot catch their breath, turning blue or grey, or becoming confused or unresponsive. Give your exact location first. Describe what the person is doing now, such as “She can only say one word at a time.” MOH guidance on calling 995 · NHS shortness of breath warning signs · SCDF emergency medical services
Breathing difficulty with chest pain or sudden collapse also needs emergency help. Stay with the person if it is safe and follow the dispatcher’s instructions. Tell them right away if the person stops responding or is no longer breathing normally. MOH guidance on calling 995 · SCDF emergency medical services
- Call 995 for severe or sudden breathing difficulty.
- Describe breathing, speech, skin colour and alertness.
- Follow dispatcher instructions and report any deterioration.
On this page · Describe What Happened Just Before · What to Notice in a Child · Frequently Asked Questions
Describe What Happened Just Before
Tell the dispatcher if the problem began while eating, after a possible allergen exposure, after a chest injury or during an illness. If the person has asthma and has taken their prescribed reliever, say what they took and when. A witness can give these details while another person meets responders. SCDF emergency medical services
What to Notice in a Child
A young child may be unable to explain what they feel. Watch for grunting, skin pulling in under the ribs or a marked change in colour or alertness. Call 995 if the child is struggling to breathe. Give their age and describe what you can see and hear. NHS shortness of breath warning signs · SCDF emergency medical services
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wait for an oxygen reading?
Call 995 for severe symptoms immediately. Give any reading you already have after describing the person’s breathing and alertness. MOH guidance on calling 995 · SCDF emergency medical services
What if they become unresponsive?
Tell the dispatcher immediately and follow instructions for checking breathing and starting CPR if needed. SCDF emergency medical services