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Warning-sign checks

CMTC: 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 care for sudden loss of vision, severe illness with signs of infection, or bleeding that does not stop after continuous firm pressure.

    These events are not typical of uncomplicated CMTC, but they require immediate assessment.

    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 ulcer, increasing pain, or skin that is becoming warm and swollen
    • Pus, spreading redness, or fever with an open area
    • New eye redness, eye pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision
    • A rapid or unexpected change in limb size
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up is tailored to the person’s age, the location of CMTC, and whether growth or skin problems are present.

    A child with isolated, stable skin changes may need only routine review.

    Children with limb differences, facial involvement, ulcers, or other findings may need more frequent specialist visits.

    Contact the usual clinician for a routine appointment if the birthmark changes gradually, a limb-size difference becomes more noticeable, or the condition begins to affect movement, footwear, comfort, or emotional well-being.

The article also says

During childhood, clinicians may repeat limb measurements and assess walking, movement, skin integrity, and overall growth.

Families can take occasional photographs under similar lighting, but daily checking is usually unnecessary.

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