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Warning-sign checks

Dubin-johnson syndrome: 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 for severe abdominal pain, confusion, fainting, difficulty waking, vomiting blood, black stools, or signs of a serious allergic reaction.

    Dubin-johnson syndrome itself does not usually cause these symptoms.

    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

    Seek urgent medical assessment if jaundice occurs with fever, persistent vomiting, marked itching, pale stools, worsening abdominal pain, or unusual weakness.

    These are not typical of uncomplicated Dubin-johnson syndrome and may indicate a different liver, gallbladder, bile duct, or blood problem.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if:

    • You develop yellow eyes or skin for the first time
    • Previously diagnosed jaundice becomes more frequent or persistent
    • A new medicine seems to make jaundice worse
    • You are pregnant and notice new or increasing jaundice
    • You want information about genetic testing or family planning

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