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Warning-sign checks

Osmotic demyelination syndrome: 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

    Call emergency services for new confusion, severe drowsiness, seizures, slurred speech, trouble swallowing, new weakness, inability to walk, or reduced consciousness.

    This is especially important during the days after treatment for low sodium or another major electrolyte problem.

    Emergency help is also needed for choking, difficulty breathing, blue or grey lips, or an inability to wake the person normally.

    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

    After hospital discharge, seek prompt medical advice if swallowing becomes harder, coughing repeatedly occurs during meals, movement declines, or there are signs of infection such as fever with breathing symptoms.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine appointments are appropriate for slow recovery, continuing stiffness or weakness, questions about rehabilitation, equipment needs, mood changes, and reviews of the condition that caused the original electrolyte problem.

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