Lichen planus sclerosus atrophicus: 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
Go to emergency care if you cannot pass urine despite needing to.
Acute urinary retention can damage the bladder and kidneys if it is not relieved.
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
Seek prompt medical assessment for:
A sore or ulcer that does not heal
A new firm lump or persistently thickened area
Unexplained bleeding, crusting or a rapidly changing patch
Increasing difficulty passing urine
New discharge, spreading redness or worsening pain
These changes do not necessarily mean cancer or a serious infection, but they should be examined.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you develop persistent white genital patches, itching, splitting or pain.
You should also seek assessment if a foreskin becomes difficult to retract, sex is painful, or your urinary stream changes.
If you already have a diagnosis, arrange follow-up when symptoms return, your treatment no longer controls them, or you are unsure how to use the prescribed ointment.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Lichen planus sclerosus atrophicus. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.