Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum: 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 symptoms such as confusion, collapse, difficulty breathing, or bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure.
These are not usual features of necrobiosis lipoidica itself.
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 prompt medical advice if:
The skin opens or forms an ulcer
Pain, warmth, swelling, or drainage is increasing
A wound is not healing as expected
A plaque repeatedly bleeds or develops a new lump
You notice medication side effects or marked skin thinning
Seek urgent medical care if redness spreads quickly beyond the affected area, particularly with fever, chills, worsening pain, or feeling very unwell.
These can be signs of a spreading infection.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment if you develop a persistent yellow-brown, red, purple, or shiny plaque, especially on the shin.
An assessment is also appropriate if a known plaque is slowly enlarging, becoming uncomfortable, or interfering with daily life.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.