Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for sudden severe pain, a firm bulge that will not go back in, red or dark skin over the hernia, repeated vomiting, marked abdominal swelling, or inability to pass stool or gas.
These can be signs of trapped or strangulated intestine.
Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse or other immediately life-threatening symptoms.
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
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek prompt medical advice if you have:
Increasing redness, warmth, swelling or drainage from the wound
Fever or chills
Repeated vomiting or difficulty keeping fluids down
Worsening abdominal pain
A wound that opens
New swelling that continues to enlarge
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Contact your surgical team during normal hours for routine concerns such as persistent constipation, pain that is not gradually improving, questions about dressings or uncertainty about returning to work and exercise.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Umbilical hernia repair. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.