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Warning-sign checks

Rehabilitation for multiple sclerosis: 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

    Seek emergency care for severe trouble breathing, chest pain, loss of consciousness, a suspected serious injury, or sudden stroke-like symptoms such as facial drooping, arm weakness, or difficulty speaking.

    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 new or clearly worsening neurological symptoms, especially if they last more than 24 hours or occur with fever or infection.

    These symptoms need assessment rather than simply increasing or stopping rehabilitation on your own.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Contact your rehabilitation or MS team during routine hours if exercises repeatedly cause pain, prolonged fatigue, falls, skin damage, or symptoms that do not settle after rest.

    Also contact them if equipment no longer fits or your goals and abilities have changed.

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