Hypokalemic periodic paralysis: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency medical help if weakness is accompanied by:

   • Trouble breathing, swallowing, or speaking
   • Chest pain, marked palpitations, fainting, or near-fainting
   • Inability to sit, stand, or move safely
   • Confusion, loss of consciousness, one-sided weakness, or facial drooping
   • A first sudden episode of severe weakness or paralysis

   And for anyone, someone who:

   • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   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 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
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   These symptoms need prompt assessment because they may reflect a severe potassium disturbance or another urgent condition, such as a stroke.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange routine review if you notice weakness between attacks, have medicine side effects, become pregnant, or need help identifying triggers.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

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