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Warning-sign checks

Molluscum contagiosum: 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

    Molluscum itself almost never needs emergency care.

    Seek emergency help if you become severely unwell, confused, faint, or develop rapidly spreading redness with fever, as these symptoms are not typical of uncomplicated molluscum.

    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 prompt medical advice if the skin becomes increasingly painful, hot, swollen, or covered with pus, especially if redness is spreading or you have a fever.

    These changes may suggest a bacterial skin infection.

    Prompt assessment is also appropriate for eye pain, sensitivity to light, persistent eye redness, or changes in vision.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if:

    • You are unsure whether the bumps are molluscum
    • The bumps are on the eyelids or around the genitals
    • Itching or eczema is disturbing sleep or daily activities
    • The bumps are numerous, unusually large, or not improving over time
    • You or your child keeps developing skin infections
    • You have a condition or treatment that weakens the immune system
    • You want to discuss treatment benefits, discomfort, and scarring risks

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