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Warning-sign checks

Obesity in children: 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 difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, chest pain with collapse, a seizure, or inability to wake the child.

    These are not usual features of obesity, but they can signal a serious medical problem.

    Stay with them and contact emergency or crisis services in your area.

    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 for a new limp, persistent hip or knee pain, repeated vomiting, marked dehydration, or a child who is unusually sleepy or confused.

    Urgent mental health support is needed if a child talks about suicide, self-harm, or not wanting to live.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if you are concerned about a child's growth pattern, rapid weight gain, eating behaviour, sleep, mobility, or emotional well-being.

    Assessment is also appropriate for persistent snoring, daytime sleepiness, darkened neck skin, irregular periods, frequent thirst or urination, or weight gain after starting a medicine.

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