Hernia

Borders Ref Help Toolkit
NHS Borders

A hernia occurs when an internal part of the body pushes through a weakness in the muscle or surrounding tissue wall.

A hernia usually develops between your chest and hips. In many cases, it causes no or very few symptoms, although you may notice a swelling or lump in your tummy (abdomen) or groin. The lump can often be pushed back in or disappears when you lie down. Coughing or straining may make the lump appear.

In some cases, GP and patient may decide that referral is not the best option for the patient.

Who to refer, who not to refer, how to refer

Who can refer:

GPs and ANPs working in Primary Care

Who to refer:

Male and female patients with inguinal or femoral hernias

Who not to refer:

Patient who have a hernia and develop any of the following symptoms should be advised to attend A&E:

  • sudden, severe pain
  • being sick
  • difficulty pooing or passing wind
  • the hernia becomes firm or tender, or cannot be pushed back in

These symptoms could mean that either:

  • the blood supply to a section of organ or tissue trapped in the hernia has become cut off (strangulation)
  • a piece of bowel has entered the hernia and become blocked (obstruction)
  • A strangulated hernia and obstructed bowel are medical emergencies and need to be treated as soon as possible.

How to refer:

Please refer via SCI Gateway

Borders General Hospital >> General Surgery >> Borders General Referral

Primary care management

Inguinal hernia patient information leaflet (1).pdf

Rockwood CFS.pdf

Resources and links

Inguinal hernia patient information leaflet (1).pdf

Rockwood CFS.pdf