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 trouble breathing, chest pain, fainting, uncontrolled bleeding or sudden severe abdominal pain.
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 same-day advice for:
Increasing abdominal pain or swelling
Repeated vomiting or inability to keep fluids down
Fever, chills or feeling increasingly unwell
A wound that becomes red, hot, more painful or starts draining pus
New bleeding from the rectum, wound or stoma
No stoma output together with pain, swelling or vomiting
Persistent watery diarrhoea or signs of dehydration
These symptoms should not wait for a routine appointment.
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
For routine questions about diet, bowel changes, wound care, stoma supplies or your return to work, contact the team during normal hours or discuss them at follow-up.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Large bowel resection. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.