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Warning-sign checks

Pellagra: 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

    Get urgent or emergency help for:

    • Severe confusion, disorientation, hallucinations, or unusual behavior
    • Fainting, reduced awareness, a seizure, or difficulty waking
    • Signs of severe dehydration, such as very little urine or marked dizziness
    • Inability to drink because of vomiting, diarrhea, or reduced alertness
    • Rapid worsening in someone who is severely malnourished

    These symptoms can have several causes.

    Emergency assessment is needed to check hydration, blood chemistry, brain function, and other possible conditions.

    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 symptoms are worsening, you cannot keep food or fluids down, or you develop increasing weakness or confusion.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have a persistent sun-sensitive rash together with diarrhea, mouth soreness, poor nutrition, or changes in mood or concentration.

    Assessment is also important if you have ongoing diarrhea, major weight loss, a very restricted diet, or a condition that interferes with nutrient absorption.

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