ABDOMINAL PAIN, MALE
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
- Vomit contains blood or black ("coffee ground"-like) 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 or blow 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)
- Unable to urinate and bladder feels full
- Blood in urine
- Pain in scrotum or testicle.
Call Your Doctor Within 24 Hours (between 9am and 4pm) If
- You think you need to be seen
- Mild pain comes and goes (cramps), but lasts greater than 24 hours
- Over 60 years old
Call Your Doctor During Weekday Office Hours If
- You have other questions or concerns
- Abdominal pain is a recurrent problem
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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