High triglycerides: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency care for severe, persistent upper abdominal pain, particularly if it spreads to your back or occurs with repeated vomiting, fever, breathing difficulty, faintness or a fast heartbeat.

   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
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek prompt medical advice if you develop unexplained yellow-red skin bumps, or if a previously high result rises despite treatment.

   These are not usually emergencies by themselves, but they may indicate a very high level.

   These symptoms may have several causes, including acute pancreatitis, and need urgent assessment.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine appointment if a blood test shows high triglycerides.

   Follow-up is especially important if the result is 500 mg/dL, or 5.6 mmol/L, or higher; if you have diabetes; or if close relatives have had very high triglycerides or pancreatitis.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

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