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Warning-sign checks

Small bowel obstruction: when to get help

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. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Go to an emergency department promptly if you have repeated vomiting, cramping abdominal pain, increasing abdominal swelling, or difficulty passing gas or stool.

    Call emergency services if symptoms include severe or constant abdominal pain, fainting, confusion, marked weakness, trouble breathing, or signs of shock such as cold clammy skin.

    Fever with worsening abdominal pain or a very tender, rigid abdomen also needs 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. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Do not wait for symptoms to become severe.

    Do not eat, take laxatives, or attempt to manage a suspected obstruction at home while waiting for assessment.

    If you have recently been treated, seek urgent reassessment if pain, swelling, vomiting, fever, or inability to pass gas returns.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up for wound concerns that are not rapidly worsening, persistent changes in appetite or bowel habits, questions about diet, or management of the condition that caused the blockage.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Small bowel obstruction. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.