There are several possible symptoms and explanations for a bulge or a feeling of discomfort so it is best not to try self-diagnosis. If you have symptoms that indicate something is not right then the only course of action is to get it checked out by a doctor.
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Founded in 1856, St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is one of the UK’s largest independent charitable hospitals. Our commitment to our patients is in the quality of our care, the range of our services and the quality of our consultants and staff.
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Symptoms
Hernia symptoms
The questions below can help you determine if you have a hernia. They are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Only a physician or other qualified health provider can diagnose and treat a hernia.
- Is there a bulge under the skin on your abdomen or in your groin area? A bulge is the most typical sign of a hernia.
- If you have a bulge under your skin, does it ever disappear? If the bulge flattens out when you lay down or press on it, the hernia probably needs prompt but not emergency, medical attention.
- If the bulge does not flatten out when you lay down or press on it, it may be trapped or strangulated. The hernia requires immediate medical attention.
- Do you have discomfort or pain when you lift, cough, sneeze, strain, or perform physical activities? Hernias can cause discomfort or pain during your daily activities, especially when you exert yourself.
- Hernias can cause discomfort or pain during urination or bowel movements. Hernias can cause a feeling of weakness or pressure in the groin area.
- Hernia pain may be sharp and sudden or dull and achy. It can also be a combination of both.
- Does your discomfort or pain get worse toward the end of the day? Hernia pain typically becomes more intense as the day goes on. Hernia pain can also worsen after standing for long periods of time.
Patient information
Our Hospital is renowned for providing exemplary levels of care across more than 90 services. From orthopaedics, to urology, our private GP practice and Urgent Care Clinic, our services are led by some of London’s leading Consultants. For more information, and to find a service suitable for your care, find out more about the services that we offer.
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If you have any questions relating to treatment options or pricing information, get in touch with us by filling out one of our contact boxes or giving us a call on 020 3370 1014.
Our Appointments Team have a dedicated and caring approach to finding you the earliest appointment possible with the best specialist.
If you are self-paying you don’t need a referral from your GP for a consultation. You can simply refer yourself* and book an appointment.
If you have health insurance (e.g. Bupa, Axa Health, Aviva), you will need to contact your insurer to get authorisation before any treatment, and in most cases you will also require a referral letter from your GP.
If you are not registered with a GP, we have an in-house private GP practice you can use. Alternatively, we can suggest the most appropriate course of action for you to take, given your location and individual circumstances.
*Please note – for investigations such as X-rays and MRIs, a referral will be required. However, we may be able to arrange this for you through our on-site private GP.
