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Warning-sign checks

Wernicke-korsakoff 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, collapse, inability to walk, or abnormal eye movements—especially when the person is undernourished, has been vomiting repeatedly, or drinks alcohol heavily.

    Suspected Wernicke encephalopathy needs immediate assessment and thiamine treatment.

    Stroke, infection, low blood sugar, head injury, alcohol withdrawal, and other emergencies can look similar.

    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 after weight-loss surgery if vomiting continues, supplements cannot be kept down, or new numbness, weakness, confusion, or balance problems develop.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine medical appointment for gradually worsening memory, repeated questions, increasing difficulty with daily tasks, persistent poor balance, weight loss, or concerns about nutrition.

    These symptoms need assessment but are not usually an emergency when they are stable and longstanding.

The article also says

Do not assume sudden confusion is simply intoxication.

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