Umbilical hernia: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek urgent or emergency care if the bulge suddenly becomes very painful, hard, red, purple, or dark, especially if it no longer flattens.

   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Seek a prompt appointment if:

   • The hernia is becoming larger or more painful
   • It is becoming harder to move back into the abdomen
   • The skin over it is sore, stretched, or repeatedly irritated
   • It interferes with eating, exercise, work, sleep, or daily activities
   • A child's hernia remains present as they approach school age

   Vomiting, a swollen abdomen, fever, or inability to pass stool or gas are also urgent warning signs.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange a routine medical appointment if you or your child develops a new bulge around the navel.

   An examination can confirm whether it is a hernia and whether monitoring or treatment is appropriate.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Umbilical hernia. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.