First, some reassurance. Most people with this symptom do not have anything serious — but it is always better to know than to worry. A quick assessment can put your mind at rest or get treatment started early, when it works best.
Common, usually harmless causes
A hernia
A soft bulge in the groin or tummy that may come and go — the most common reason people see me about a lump.
A cyst or lipoma
A harmless fluid- or fat-filled lump under the skin.
A swollen gland
Often appears with an infection nearby and settles afterwards.
Why it's worth getting checked
Occasionally a lump represents something that needs treating promptly, or a swelling deeper in the abdomen that should be scanned. An examination quickly tells us which kind of lump you have and what, if anything, needs doing.
When to get this checked
Please arrange to be seen if:
- You can feel a new lump or swelling in your tummy or groin
- It is getting bigger, or becoming firmer or sore
- It comes with tummy pain, a change in bowel habit, or weight loss
- It is a bulge that appears when you cough, lift or strain
- You are simply not sure what it is
Get urgent help now if…
Go to A&E or call 999 (or NHS 111 for advice) if:
- The lump is suddenly painful, hard, and will not push back in
- You also feel sick or are vomiting
- The skin over it is red, hot or rapidly swelling
These need emergency care, not a routine appointment. Please do not wait for a private booking.
How I can help — and how quickly
If your symptom is not an emergency, you do not have to sit on a waiting list to get answers. Here is how it usually works:
- A quick telephone consultation. Often arranged within 24 hours. I listen to your history and explain what is likely going on.
- The right test, arranged fast. Where appropriate, I can organise a an examination and, where needed, an ultrasound or scan to confirm exactly what it is promptly — sometimes before your first face-to-face visit, to speed things up.
- Clear answers and a plan. We go through your results together, and I explain exactly what they mean and what happens next.
Some symptoms need an in-person examination first, and I will always tell you honestly what the best next step is for you.
Why patients choose me
- 8,000+ procedures performed
- FRCS — Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon
- MB ChB with Honours & Distinction (Sheffield)
- Ethicon Advanced Laparoscopic Fellowship — keyhole & robotic surgery
Request a telephone consultation
Prefer a call before coming in? Leave your details below and my secretary will contact you to arrange a telephone consultation, usually within 24 hours. Where appropriate, a phone consultation can fast-track you straight to the right test.
Prefer to email directly? Email a 24-hour callback request · or call 01926 935121
Your details are used only to arrange your consultation. Please don't include sensitive medical information in this form.
Get seen quickly
Call my secretary to arrange a fast appointment, or book online via my Nuffield Health profile. I see patients privately at Nuffield Health Warwickshire Hospital, Leamington Spa.
Call 01926 935121Common questions
Are most lumps serious?
No — most are hernias or harmless cysts. But because a small number need prompt treatment, a quick examination is the safest way to know.
Will I need a scan?
Sometimes. Many lumps can be diagnosed by examination alone; others are confirmed with a simple ultrasound. I will advise what yours needs.
How quickly can I be seen?
A telephone consultation can usually be arranged within a day or two, with an examination soon after.