Warning-sign checks
Hypoparathyroidism: 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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911Call emergency services for a seizure, severe breathing difficulty, collapse, or a spasm affecting the throat.
These symptoms can occur when calcium is dangerously low and need 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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen todayArrange a prompt medical review if you develop new or worsening tingling, repeated muscle cramps, twitching, or spasms.
Contact your healthcare team if vomiting, diarrhoea, illness, or missed treatment may have affected your calcium level.
Seek urgent medical help for:
- A painful or sustained spasm of the hands, feet, or face
- New confusion, severe weakness, or fainting
- A fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
- Symptoms that are worsening rapidly
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hypoparathyroidism. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.