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Warning-sign checks

Viral gastroenteritis: 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

    Get emergency help for confusion, fainting, difficulty waking, severe weakness, or very little to no urine.

    These can be signs of severe dehydration.

    Vomiting blood, material that looks like coffee grounds, or bright green fluid also needs emergency assessment.

    Sudden severe abdominal pain, a rigid or swollen abdomen, or trouble breathing may point to another serious problem rather than uncomplicated viral gastroenteritis.

    Routine medical follow-up is different from 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

    Seek urgent medical advice if you or someone you care for cannot keep fluids down, is urinating much less than usual, or has clear signs of dehydration.

    Young babies, frail older adults, and people with weakened immune systems should be assessed sooner because they have less reserve.

    Urgent assessment is also appropriate for:

    • Blood, pus, or black coloring in the stool
    • Frequent vomiting that prevents drinking
    • High or persistent fever
    • Severe or worsening abdominal pain
    • Diarrhea that is not beginning to improve
    • Symptoms after recent foreign travel, hospitalization, or antibiotic treatment
    • A baby with repeated vomiting, diarrhea, or fewer wet diapers
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    It is reasonable to arrange a non-urgent appointment for bowel changes that linger after recovery, repeated episodes, or concerns about nutrition and weight.

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