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
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or a stoma that suddenly becomes black, very dark, or loses its usual blood-red colour.
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
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent medical advice the same day for:
No stoma output with increasing cramps, swelling, nausea, or vomiting
Persistent watery output or signs of dehydration
Increasing wound redness, drainage, or fever
A major change in the stoma's size, position, or appearance
Bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your stoma or surgical team during routine hours for ongoing pouch leaks, mild skin soreness, questions about diet or supplies, or difficulty managing stoma care.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Colostomy. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.