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 stable hernia
A soft bulge that comes and goes and pushes back easily — often watchable, but worth a plan.
An enlarging hernia
Hernias tend to get gradually bigger over time, and larger ones can be more uncomfortable.
An aching hernia
A dragging or aching feeling, especially at the end of the day or after lifting, is common.
Why it's worth getting checked
The change to watch for is a hernia that becomes painful, firm, or stops going back in. Rarely, a piece of bowel can become trapped, which is a surgical emergency. Knowing the warning signs — and having a repair plan in place — means you are never caught out.
When to get this checked
Please arrange to be seen if:
- Your hernia is getting bigger or more uncomfortable
- It aches or drags, particularly after lifting or by the evening
- It is becoming harder to push back in
- It is affecting your work, exercise or daily life
- You would like a clear plan and a fast repair option
Get urgent help now if…
Go to A&E or call 999 (or NHS 111 for advice) if:
- The hernia is suddenly painful and hard, and will not go back in
- You are being sick, or have severe tummy pain
- The skin over it is red 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 a clear repair plan, usually keyhole (laparoscopic) surgery with a quick recovery 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
- Ethicon Advanced Laparoscopic Fellowship — keyhole & robotic surgery
- 8,000+ procedures performed
- FRCS — Consultant Colorectal & General Surgeon
- MB ChB with Honours & Distinction (Sheffield)
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
Does every hernia need surgery?
No — some small, comfortable hernias can be safely watched. But a growing or painful one is usually best repaired, and I will give you an honest recommendation.
How quick is recovery from keyhole repair?
Most people are up and about within a day or two and back to normal activities within a couple of weeks, depending on the hernia and your work.
Can I get a fast repair date privately?
Yes. A telephone consultation can usually be arranged within a day or two, with examination and a surgery date organised promptly.