Multiple system atrophy - cerebellar subtype: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, choking that does not clear, loss of consciousness with failure to recover normally, or a serious fall or head injury.
Sudden facial drooping, one-sided weakness, or abruptly changed speech may be signs of a stroke and also require emergency help.
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
Seek urgent medical assessment for:
New or worsening noisy, high-pitched breathing
Repeated fainting or a faint that causes injury
Inability to swallow fluids
Inability to pass urine with a painful or swollen lower abdomen
Fever, cough, chest discomfort, or breathlessness after choking
A sudden major decline in walking, speech, or alertness
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine follow-up if symptoms are gradually worsening, equipment is no longer suitable, medicines cause unwanted effects, or daily activities are becoming harder.
Report repeated falls, weight loss, new swallowing difficulty, worsening bladder symptoms, or increasing dizziness rather than waiting for the next planned review.