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Warning-sign checks

Radiation injuries: 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

    Seek emergency help after a known or suspected major radiation incident, especially if you develop repeated vomiting, confusion, collapse, severe weakness, extensive skin redness, unexplained burns, or blistering.

    Tell the emergency dispatcher that radiation or radioactive material may be involved.

    Move away from it and contact emergency services.

    During a large public incident, use official emergency channels rather than going outside to investigate.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    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 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

    Do not delay urgent care for serious injuries.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine medical follow-up if you have persistent skin changes, patchy hair loss, an area that repeatedly blisters or opens, unusual bruising, or ongoing symptoms after a documented exposure.

    People previously treated with radiation should also report unexpected changes in the treated area to their treatment team.

The article also says

Do not handle or transport a suspected radioactive object.

If radioactive material may be on your clothing or skin, keep away from other people when practical and follow official decontamination instructions.

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