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 or rapidly worsening difficulty breathing
Blue, grey, or unusually pale lips or skin
Sudden intense chest or upper abdominal pain
Fainting, confusion, or difficulty waking
Severe symptoms after a major chest or abdominal injury
A newborn with difficult breathing, unusual skin colour, or poor responsiveness needs immediate emergency care.
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 assessment for repeated vomiting, a swollen abdomen, inability to pass stool or gas, or worsening pain.
These may indicate a blocked or trapped digestive organ.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine appointment for persistent mild breathlessness, recurring chest or upper abdominal discomfort, frequent vomiting, trouble swallowing, early fullness, or ongoing reflux.
After a previous repair, report new symptoms even if the operation was many years ago.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Diaphragmatic hernia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.