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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
These may need assessment but are not always emergencies.
Call emergency services for:
Severe or rapidly worsening difficulty breathing
Blue or grey lips, confusion, or inability to speak because of breathlessness
Choking with inability to breathe
Chest pain, fainting, or a sustained rapid or irregular heartbeat
These symptoms can have causes other than LGMD, but they need immediate assessment.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
If you already have LGMD, contact your care team promptly about increasing falls, new swallowing difficulty, a weaker cough, morning headaches, daytime sleepiness, or shortness of breath when lying down.
Seek urgent medical help for dark urine with severe muscle pain or weakness, especially after strenuous activity or illness.
This can be a sign of substantial muscle breakdown.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you notice gradual difficulty climbing stairs, rising from chairs, lifting your arms, or keeping up with usual activities.
These symptoms have many possible causes and do not necessarily mean LGMD.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on LGMD. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.