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Emergency signs
If you think your shunt is failing, get help now.
A shunt malfunction can get serious fast. Don't wait to see if it passes, and don't finish reading this first. You can come back later.
Go to the ER now if you have:
Any one of these is enough. You don't need several.
Trouble waking up or staying awake
This one is the most urgent. Don't let them sleep it off.
A sudden or severe headache
Especially one your usual treatment doesn't touch.
Vomiting or ongoing nausea
Especially together with a headache.
Vision changes
Double vision, blurriness, or anything new.
Confusion, or changes in speech or thinking
Slurring, struggling for words, or not making sense.
Fever with a shunt
Shunt infections need fast treatment.
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