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Warning-sign checks

Familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency: 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 medical care for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, especially if it spreads to the back or occurs with repeated vomiting.

    These symptoms may be caused by acute pancreatitis and should not be managed at home.

    Emergency assessment is also appropriate if abdominal pain is accompanied by fainting, confusion, breathing difficulty or an inability to keep fluids down.

    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 advice for new or steadily worsening abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, or symptoms resembling a previous pancreatitis attack.

    During pregnancy, report abdominal pain or persistent vomiting promptly to your maternity team.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up if:

    • Abdominal symptoms are becoming more frequent
    • Your prescribed eating plan has become difficult to maintain
    • You notice new skin bumps that may be xanthomas
    • You have possible medication side effects
    • You are planning a pregnancy
    • You need help with nutrition, school, work or travel

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