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
Go to an emergency department immediately if a child has symptoms that could be intussusception.
Emergency warning signs include:
Sudden, repeated episodes of severe belly pain or distressed crying
Pulling the knees up during painful episodes
Green vomit
Blood or dark red mucus in the stool
Unusual sleepiness, weakness, floppiness, or reduced responsiveness
A swollen, very tender, or rigid abdomen
Fainting, difficulty waking, or pale and mottled skin
Similar symptoms after recent treatment for intussusception
Call emergency services if the child is difficult to wake, collapses, has trouble breathing, or appears severely unwell.
Do not give food or drink while travelling for urgent assessment unless emergency professionals advise otherwise.
Do not use laxatives or enemas at home for these symptoms.
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
Do not wait for every typical symptom to appear.
Fever, worsening pain, repeated vomiting, wound discharge, or renewed symptoms need more urgent advice.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Routine follow-up is appropriate after recovery if there are questions about appetite, bowel habits, activity, or wound care and the child is otherwise comfortable and well.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Intussusception – children. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.