CanPKU+ has officially joined the Think Ammonia campaign

Think Ammonia

High ammonia can be dangerous and time sensitive. The Think Ammonia campaign raises awareness so that families, the public, and healthcare professionals can recognize possible signs of high ammonia, test earlier, and act quickly.

Why ammonia matters

Hyperammonemia means ammonia levels in the blood are higher than they should be. It can be extremely dangerous and may lead to disability or death. It is of particular concern for people living with urea cycle disorders because these conditions affect the body's ability to properly break down ammonia.

Spot the symptoms

Symptoms of high ammonia may be non-specific and can vary from person to person based on age and ammonia levels. Early signs may include vomiting, headaches, and lethargy before symptoms worsen.

If you are worried, seek medical attention

This is rare, but if you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of high ammonia, seek medical attention.

If you live with a condition that puts you at risk of high ammonia, see your healthcare provider regularly to manage your condition and monitor ammonia levels.

For healthcare professionals

Hyperammonemia is a time-critical medical emergency with risk of death and serious neurological damage. Symptoms can be non-specific at first and may include irritability, lethargy, vomiting, headache, loss of muscle coordination, behaviour changes, confusion, mood swings, seizures, coma, and encephalopathy.

Think ammonia. Test ammonia. Treat ammonia.

If ammonia levels are elevated, urgently contact your regional inherited metabolic disorder service and refer to hyperammonemia guidance.

Campaign posters

Metabolic Support UK has created these Think Ammonia posters for CanPKU+ to help share important awareness information with the public and healthcare professionals. These materials are designed to help people recognize possible signs of high ammonia, test earlier, and act quickly.

Healthcare Professionals Poster

Click the poster to open the full image.

Public Awareness Poster

Click the poster to open the full image.

International resources

High ammonia is a risk around the world for people living with inherited metabolic disorders. Metabolic Support UK is working with international partners to support timely diagnosis and treatment beyond the UK, including translated and partner resources.

Think Ammonia Webinar

View the 2025 Think Ammonia webinar presented by metaBERN. This session discusses hyperammonemia awareness, recognition, and the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment.

Last updated: May 2026. This page is for general education and awareness only and is not medical advice. If you are concerned about symptoms of high ammonia, seek medical attention. To suggest an update, contact website@canpku.org.