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Warning-sign checks

Intellectual disability: 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

    Use emergency services for immediate danger, serious injury, severe breathing difficulty, loss of consciousness, or thoughts or actions involving immediate self-harm or harm to someone else.

    A first seizure, or repeated or prolonged seizures without recovery, also needs emergency help.

    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 prompt medical advice for:

    • Loss of previously learned language, movement, or self-care skills
    • A major unexplained change in sleep, eating, mood, or behavior
    • New swallowing difficulties, repeated choking, or unexplained weight loss
    • Possible medication side effects
    • Signs of neglect, bullying, exploitation, or abuse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine assessment if a child is not meeting several developmental milestones, is having persistent learning difficulties, or needs much more help with everyday skills than expected for their age.

    Hearing and vision problems should also be checked because they can affect communication and learning.

    Routine follow-up may include reviews of development, communication, education or work support, mental health, medicines, hearing, vision, dental health, and any condition linked to the underlying cause.

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