ABDOMINAL PAIN, FEMALE


Symptoms | When to call | Homecare Advice

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WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR FOR ABDOMINAL PAIN

Call 911 Now (you may need an ambulance) If

  • Passed out (fainted)
  • Very weak (can't stand)

Call Your Doctor Now (night or day) If

  • You feel weak or very sick
  • Severe pain
  • Constant abdominal pain for more than 2 hours
  • Vomiting contains blood or black ("coffee ground") material
  • Vomiting bile (bright yellow or green)
  • Vomiting and abdomen is more swollen than usual
  • Blood in bowel movements (black/tarry or red)
  • Recent injury to the abdomen
  • Fever of 103 F (39.4 C) or higher
  •  Fever of 100.5 F (38.1 C) or higher and you:
  • Are over 60 years of age:
    • Have diabetes mellitus or a weakened immune system (e.g. HIV positive, cancer chemotherapy, chronic steroid treatment, splenectomy)
    • Are bedridden (e.g. nursing home patient, stroke, chronic illness, recovering from surgery)
  • Whites of the eyes have turned yellow (jaundice)
  • Pregnant or could be pregnant (e.g. missed last menstrual period)
  • Blood in urine

Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If

  • You think you need to be seen
  • Moderate or mild pain comes and goes (cramps), but lasts greater than 24 hours
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (e.g. bad odor; yellow, gray or green in color)
  • Age greater than 60

Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If

  • You have other questions or concerns
  • Abdominal pains are a recurrent problem
  • Pain with sexual intercourse

Self Care at Home If

  • Mild abdominal pain and you don't think you need to be seen

Disclaimer: This information is not intended be a substitute for professional medical advice. It is provided for educational purposes only. You assume full responsibility for how you choose to use this information.

Adult SelfCareNavigator. Copyright © 2000-2004 David Thompson, M.D. FACEP

Reviewed 8/2004

Revised 8/2003

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