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
Seek emergency care now if you have:
Vomit containing red blood or material resembling coffee grounds
Black, sticky stools, especially with weakness or dizziness
Sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
A hard or very tender abdomen
Fainting, confusion, marked breathlessness, or cold, clammy skin
These symptoms can indicate heavy bleeding or a perforation.
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
Arrange prompt medical assessment if you have repeated vomiting, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, worsening pain, reduced appetite, or symptoms of anaemia such as unusual tiredness and breathlessness.
Do not wait for severe pain before seeking advice, because bleeding ulcers may cause little pain.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine assessment is appropriate for persistent or recurring upper abdominal pain, indigestion, early fullness, or nausea.
Mention any regular use of aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, blood thinners, or steroids, as well as any previous ulcer.
If you are already receiving treatment, arrange follow-up if symptoms are not improving, return after treatment, or medication causes troublesome effects.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Gastric ulcer. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.