When should you take seeking care more seriously?
These signs may require urgent assessment and should not be delayed while waiting for a routine appointment.
- Severe or worsening abdominal pain — Urgent assessment is needed, especially if it started suddenly or makes movement or touch difficult.
- Fever, persistent vomiting, or inability to eat or drink — When these symptoms occur with abdominal pain, they may indicate a need for prompt evaluation.
- A painful, firm hernia bulge — If the bulge changes color, cannot be pushed back in, or is accompanied by nausea and severe pain, go to the emergency department immediately or call 115.