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Warning-sign checks

Stretch marks: 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

    They do not normally require emergency department care.

    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 urgent, same-day care for severe pain, rapidly spreading redness, warmth, pus, blistering, or fever.

    These are not features of uncomplicated stretch marks and may indicate infection or another skin condition.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    A routine appointment may be helpful if you are unsure what the lines are or want to discuss treatment options.

    Arrange a routine medical review if:

    • Many marks appear suddenly without pregnancy, puberty, or clear body change
    • The marks are unusually broad or deep purple
    • You also have easy bruising, marked muscle weakness, or major body-shape changes
    • You have been using corticosteroid medicines, especially strong skin creams
    • The marks or concerns about appearance are affecting your wellbeing

The article also says

Stretch marks caused by expected growth or pregnancy do not usually need medical assessment.

Do not stop a prescribed corticosteroid suddenly while waiting for advice.

Stretch marks alone are not an emergency.

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