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Warning-sign checks

Developmental coordination disorder: 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 emergency help for sudden loss of coordination, especially with facial drooping, one-sided weakness, difficulty speaking, severe headache, confusion, fainting, or a seizure.

    Sudden symptoms after a serious head or neck injury also need emergency 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 a prompt medical review if there is a noticeable loss of skills that were previously established, worsening weakness, repeated unexplained falls, new vision problems, persistent pain, or a major change in walking.

    These are not typical features of stable DCD and may have another cause.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine assessment if coordination problems are persistent, clearly different from those of similar-aged peers, or interfering with self-care, education, work, play, or confidence.

    For a child, concerns can be discussed with a primary care clinician, school health service, teacher, or developmental professional.

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