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
Seek emergency help for sudden or severe abdominal pain, heavy rectal bleeding, black tar-like stools, fainting, confusion, or signs of severe dehydration.
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
Seek prompt medical advice if you develop:
Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
Unexplained weight loss
Fever or repeated vomiting
Diarrhea that regularly wakes you from sleep
A new lump or persistent swelling in the abdomen
Unusual tiredness, shortness of breath, or paleness that could suggest anemia
A clear and lasting change from your usual IBS pattern
These are not usual IBS symptoms and may indicate another urgent condition.
And for anyone, someone who:
has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits keep returning or continue for several weeks.
Follow-up is also appropriate if current treatment is not helping, medicines are causing problems, or food avoidance is becoming difficult to manage.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Irritable bowel syndrome. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.