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Warning-sign checks

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I: 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

    Call emergency services for severe trouble breathing, blue or grey lips, inability to stay awake, collapse, or a serious allergic reaction with facial swelling or breathing difficulty.

    After a stem cell transplant, fever or signs of infection may require immediate assessment.

    Follow the transplant team’s specific emergency plan.

    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

    Developmental slowing or loss of a previously learned skill also needs prompt assessment.

    Seek urgent medical care for:

    • New weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking
    • New loss of bladder or bowel control
    • Severe neck or back pain, especially after an injury
    • Fainting, chest pain, or a sudden major drop in stamina
    • An infusion reaction that continues after the infusion has stopped
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if there are new or gradually worsening changes such as increased snoring, daytime sleepiness, reduced exercise tolerance, joint pain, hand numbness, hearing difficulty, vision changes, or loss of mobility.

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