Pouchy.orgWhen to Call Your Doctor
Warning signs that need prompt medical attention.
Call Your Doctor Soon
- Increased bowel frequency that lasts more than a few days
- Blood in your stool (especially if new or worsening)
- Persistent abdominal pain or cramping
- Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, dry mouth)
- Difficulty passing stool or feeling of blockage
- Skin irritation around the anus that isn’t improving
- New or worsening incontinence
Seek Urgent Care or ER
- High fever
- Severe abdominal pain (especially if sudden)
- Heavy rectal bleeding
- Vomiting that won’t stop (especially if you can’t keep fluids down)
- Signs of bowel obstruction: no stool output, bloating, cramping, vomiting
- Wound that is red, hot, swollen, or draining pus
Keep This Information Handy
Save your surgeon’s office number and after-hours line in your phone. If you’re traveling, know where the nearest emergency room is. Carry a brief medical summary card that lists your surgery type, medications, and allergies — this helps any doctor treat you quickly.
Trust Your Instincts
You know your body best. If something feels wrong, it’s always better to call and ask than to wait and worry. Your medical team would rather hear from you early than deal with a complication that has gotten worse.
Last reviewed: June 27, 2026 · Pouchy.org patient education, medically reviewed by Stefan D. Holubar, MD, MS (Cleveland Clinic).
Educational content only — not medical advice. Pouchy.org explains general concepts about pouch surgery. Always discuss your own care with your surgical and GI team.