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
Get emergency help for vomiting bright red blood or material that looks like coffee grounds.
Emergency warning signs also include fainting, marked dizziness, confusion, clammy skin, a rapid heartbeat, or severe weakness, especially with signs of bleeding.
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 for:
Unplanned weight loss
Repeated vomiting
Trouble or pain when swallowing
Ongoing loss of appetite
Unusual tiredness, weakness, or breathlessness
Symptoms that continue despite treatment
A previous ulcer with returning symptoms
Black, sticky, tar-like stools can also indicate bleeding and need urgent assessment.
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine medical appointment if you have continuing or recurring upper abdominal pain, nausea, early fullness, or indigestion.
Assessment is also important if symptoms start while you are taking an NSAID or aspirin.
The article also says
Sudden, severe abdominal pain may mean that an ulcer has perforated.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Peptic ulcer. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.