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 or go to an emergency department now if you have:
Sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening abdominal or chest pain
A hard, swollen, or very tender abdomen
Severe pain after abdominal injury, endoscopy, or bowel surgery
Abdominal pain with fever, repeated vomiting, fainting, or confusion
Trouble breathing or swallowing after vomiting, injury, or a procedure
Severe weakness, cold or clammy skin, or very little urine
Do not eat, drink, take laxatives, or try to treat severe symptoms at home while waiting for emergency care.
Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, confused, or very unwell.
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
After treatment, contact your surgical or hospital team promptly for increasing pain, fever, vomiting, wound redness or drainage, inability to eat or drink, or an unexpected change in stoma output.
Do not wait for a routine appointment if symptoms are rapidly worsening.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Gastrointestinal perforation. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.