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Warning-sign checks

HELLP 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

    HELLP syndrome is an emergency when it is suspected.

    Call emergency services for a seizure, collapse, severe breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, sudden weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, or loss of consciousness.

    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

    During pregnancy or in the days after birth, seek urgent maternity assessment for:

    • New or severe pain beneath the ribs or in the upper abdomen
    • A severe headache that does not settle
    • Blurred vision, flashing lights, or loss of vision
    • New vomiting with upper abdominal pain or marked illness
    • Sudden swelling of the face or hands
    • Shortness of breath
    • Much less fetal movement than usual
    • A blood pressure reading in the severe range, if you monitor at home

    Do not wait for a routine appointment if these symptoms occur.

    HELLP can develop even if a recent blood pressure check was normal.

    Routine follow-up is appropriate when you are recovering and have no new urgent symptoms.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Keep planned appointments for blood pressure checks, blood tests, medication review, and discussion of future pregnancy care.

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