Severe, sudden abdominal pain can signal a serious medical emergency (such as appendicitis, perforated ulcer, intestinal obstruction, ruptured aneurysm, or ectopic pregnancy). Immediate action is needed to protect the person until professional help arrives.
1. Call emergency services immediately
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Dial your local emergency number.
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Severe abdominal pain should never be ignored, especially if it comes on suddenly and intensely.
2. Assess the person’s condition
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Check for additional symptoms:
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Vomiting (especially blood or coffee-ground-like material)
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Blood in stool or black, tarry stool
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Dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or shock (pale, clammy skin)
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Fever and chills
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Distended (swollen) abdomen
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In women: possible missed period and severe pain (risk of ectopic pregnancy)
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3. First aid while waiting for help
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Have the person lie down in a comfortable position (usually knees bent slightly relieves pain).
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Keep them as still as possible.
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Place a light blanket to keep them warm if they are pale or in shock.
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Offer nothing to eat or drink – even water – in case surgery is required.
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Do not give alcohol or painkillers, as these can worsen the condition or mask symptoms.
4. Do NOT
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Do not apply heat to the abdomen (may worsen internal bleeding or infection).
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Do not try to induce vomiting, even if nausea is present.
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Do not delay seeking medical help, even if pain eases temporarily.
5. If they collapse or stop breathing
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Begin CPR if the person becomes unresponsive and has no normal breathing.
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If breathing but unconscious, place them in the recovery position.
6. Important details for doctors
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Note when the pain began, its location, and whether it spread.
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Record any associated symptoms (vomiting, bleeding, fever, urinary problems).
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Mention any recent injuries, surgeries, medications, or medical conditions.
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