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 sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, trouble speaking, collapse, a seizure, or a sudden severe headache.
These can be signs of a stroke or another emergency.
Emergency assessment is also needed for sudden loss of bladder or bowel control with numbness around the groin, new severe leg weakness, a serious fall, or inability to pass urine with severe lower abdominal pain.
Trouble breathing, facial or throat swelling, or widespread blistering after an antibiotic also needs emergency 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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt, same-day advice for:
New changes in vision or hearing
Rapidly worsening walking or balance
Increasing difficulty passing urine
A swollen, unstable joint, especially when sensation is reduced
A wound, burn, or foot injury that is not healing
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a medical assessment if you have unexplained lightning-like pains, worsening balance, numbness, bladder problems, or a history of syphilis with new neurologic symptoms.
These symptoms have several possible causes and do not confirm tabes dorsalis.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Tabes dorsalis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.