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Warning-sign checks

Abdominal rigidity: 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

    Seek emergency medical care now for a newly rigid abdomen that does not relax, particularly when it occurs with:

    • Severe, sudden, or rapidly worsening pain
    • Marked pain when the abdomen is touched
    • Fever, repeated vomiting, or increasing swelling
    • Inability to pass stool or gas
    • Fainting, confusion, severe weakness, or cold clammy skin
    • Blood in vomit or stool, or black tar-like stool
    • Recent abdominal injury or surgery
    • Possible pregnancy with pain, bleeding, dizziness, or fainting

    Call emergency services if you feel faint, are confused, or are too unwell to travel safely.

    Do not drive yourself in that situation.

    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

    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 a routine appointment if the tightness is mild but keeps returning, lasts without improving, or is associated with ongoing constipation, a new lump, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits.

    A clinician can check whether the sensation comes from the abdominal muscles, bloating, or another problem.

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