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Warning-sign checks

Autism spectrum disorder: 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 help if the person is in immediate danger, has suicidal thoughts with intent or a plan, is severely injuring themselves or another person, or has a seizure lasting longer than five minutes.

    Emergency care is also appropriate for repeated seizures without recovery, serious injury, or breathing difficulty.

    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

    Arrange a prompt medical evaluation for loss of previously acquired skills, a major unexplained behavior change, possible seizures, persistent feeding problems, significant weight change, or worsening anxiety or depression.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up should review communication, learning or work, sleep, nutrition, emotional health, safety, medications, and access to needed services.

    Children may need reassessment during major transitions, such as starting school or moving into adult care.

    Adults may benefit from follow-up when support needs, relationships, work, housing, or mental health change.

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