Idiopathic intracranial hypertension: 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 911
Call emergency services for a sudden “worst-ever” headache, collapse, confusion, seizure, weakness on one side, difficulty speaking, or loss of consciousness.
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 today
Arrange a prompt medical or eye-care appointment if you develop new persistent headaches, pulsing noise in the ears, repeated episodes of dim vision, double vision, or unexplained visual changes.
These symptoms have several possible causes and need assessment rather than self-diagnosis.
If you have diagnosed IIH, contact your usual care team promptly if symptoms return or become more frequent.
Seek same-day urgent assessment for:
New loss of vision or rapidly worsening vision
A dark area, marked blurring, or major loss of side vision
New persistent double vision with a severe headache
Repeated vomiting with worsening headache or visual symptoms
These are not typical symptoms to monitor at home and may indicate another urgent condition.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up remains important even when you feel well because side-vision changes may not be obvious.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Idiopathic intracranial hypertension. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.