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 collapse, fainting with suspected bleeding, severe breathing difficulty, sudden intense abdominal pain, a rigid or very tender abdomen, or vomiting blood with weakness or confusion.
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:
Blood in vomit or a large amount of rectal bleeding
Black, tar-like stool
Persistent vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
Severe or worsening abdominal pain
Increasing abdominal swelling with no stool or gas
Signs of dehydration, such as very little urine or marked dizziness
New jaundice, especially with pain, fever, or confusion
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if symptoms persist, repeatedly return, disturb sleep, or affect eating or daily activities.
Seek assessment for an unexplained change in bowel habits, ongoing difficulty swallowing, repeated vomiting, unplanned weight loss, jaundice, or continuing abdominal pain.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Digestive diseases. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.