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What to do if…
you have sudden abdominal pain that is new and worsening

Short answer

If your abdominal pain is new and worsening, treat it as urgent. If it’s severe, or you feel very unwell, go to the Emergency Department now — and call 911 if you can’t safely get there.

Do not do these things

  • Do not keep waiting if the pain is worsening, severe, or “not like anything you’ve had before.”
  • Do not take laxatives, enemas, or try to “push through” constipation to fix it.
  • Do not drink alcohol, and avoid eating a full meal “to see if it settles.”
  • Do not take aspirin/ibuprofen/naproxen or other nonprescription pain relievers unless a clinician has told you to — they can worsen some causes of bleeding/irritation.
  • Do not drive yourself if you’re dizzy, faint, confused, very weak, or the pain is severe — get help.
  • Do not assume urgent care can do everything you may need; many clinics cannot provide imaging, IV fluids, or full lab work.

What to do now

  1. Call 911 or get emergency help immediately if any red flags are present.
    Call 911 (or have someone call) if:
    • the pain is severe or came on suddenly
    • you have chest/neck/shoulder pain, trouble breathing, confusion, or you feel faint
    • the pain followed injury/trauma (car crash, fall, hit to the abdomen)
    • you vomit blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
    • you have black/tarry stools or blood in stool
    • your abdomen is swollen and tender or rigid/hard to the touch
    • you have a high fever and feel generally very ill
  2. If it’s not a 911 situation but it’s worsening, go to an Emergency Department now.
    New, worsening abdominal pain can need imaging, IV fluids, and time-sensitive treatment.
  3. If pregnancy is possible, treat this as higher risk.
    If you could be pregnant, take a home pregnancy test now if you can do it quickly. If positive — or if you have vaginal bleeding, shoulder pain, or faintness — seek emergency care immediately.
  4. If the pain is significant/worsening (or you’re vomiting), avoid eating for now.
    Take only small sips of water if needed, in case you need scans, sedation, or surgery.
  5. Prepare the key details for triage (this speeds up care).
    Write down:
    • when it started and how it changed (sudden vs gradual; worsening)
    • where it hurts (exact spot) and whether it moves to back/shoulder/groin
    • vomiting/diarrhea/constipation, fever/chills, urinary symptoms, bleeding
    • all meds/supplements, allergies, major conditions, surgeries, and last menstrual period (if relevant)
  6. Get a safe ride and support.
    If possible, have someone drive you and stay reachable. Bring ID, insurance card (if you have one), a med list, and a phone charger.
  7. While waiting, escalate if you get worse.
    If you develop fainting, confusion, shortness of breath, heavy bleeding, or rapidly worsening pain: call 911.

What can wait

  • You do not need to diagnose yourself or decide what it “probably is.”
  • You do not need to finish tasks, go back to work, or “see how it is tomorrow” if it’s worsening.
  • You do not need to pick a perfect facility — the priority is getting assessed safely and promptly.

Important reassurance

It’s common to doubt yourself when pain is “inside” and hard to describe. New, worsening abdominal pain is a valid reason to seek urgent evaluation — and getting checked early is often the safest way to rule out serious causes.

Scope note

This is first-steps guidance for the first hours. After you’re evaluated, follow the discharge instructions closely and return promptly if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear.

Important note

This guide is general information, not medical advice or a diagnosis. If you think you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest Emergency Department.

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