Patient information · Upper GI & hernia symptoms
You do not need to know the name of an operation—or even know exactly what is causing a symptom—before asking for advice. A new lump, a change around an old scar, recurring reflux or persistent upper abdominal discomfort can all be starting points for a conversation. I see private patients in Worcestershire and Bath, at Sulis Hospital Bath and Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester; please contact the practice to confirm appointment availability.
01 · Upper gastrointestinal symptoms
Upper GI symptoms can have many causes. Their pattern, duration and any accompanying symptoms help determine whether an examination or further tests may be useful.
A burning feeling behind the breastbone, sour or bitter fluid coming back into the mouth, or symptoms that are worse after meals or when lying down.
Persistent or troublesome symptoms may deserve review, especially if pharmacy treatments are not helping.
Repeated discomfort or pain in the upper abdomen, feeling unusually full, nausea, or symptoms that interfere with eating or daily life.
For pain under the right ribs or in the upper abdomen—particularly after meals—assessment may help establish whether the gallbladder or another cause is involved.
Food or drink seeming to stick, taking longer to swallow, or swallowing becoming uncomfortable should be assessed promptly. Do not simply assume it is reflux or a hiatus hernia.
Repeated vomiting, ongoing nausea, difficulty maintaining food or fluid intake, or becoming full much earlier than usual can have several causes and may warrant investigation.
02 · Hernia and abdominal wall symptoms
Hernias can occur in the groin, upper thigh, around the belly button, elsewhere on the abdominal wall or at the site of a previous operation. Symptoms vary; a hernia is not always painful.
A swelling that becomes more obvious when standing, coughing, lifting or straining—and may reduce when lying down—can be a sign of a hernia.
It may be in the groin, near the belly button, in the upper abdomen or at another point in the abdominal wall.
Some people notice discomfort, pressure or a heavy feeling around a bulge, particularly towards the end of the day or during activity. Others have little or no pain.
A new swelling or change in the contour of the abdominal wall after previous surgery may need assessment for an incisional hernia, scar-related change or another cause.
You may notice a bulge getting bigger over time, discomfort with exercise or everyday tasks, or concern because a previous hernia has returned. It is reasonable to seek advice even if you are unsure whether treatment is needed.
You don't need to self-diagnose
An assessment focuses on your history and symptoms, an examination where appropriate, and reviewing any previous operations or investigations. Depending on the problem, tests might include blood tests, ultrasound, endoscopy or cross-sectional imaging. Not everyone needs every test, and not every symptom requires surgery.
What happens next?
The best next step depends on the full picture. Sometimes reassurance or non-operative treatment is appropriate. Sometimes further investigation is helpful, and in selected cases a procedure may be discussed after the options and risks have been considered.
My practice includes upper gastrointestinal endoscopy (gastroscopy), transnasal endoscopy (TNE), and interventional endoscopy including dilatation. We can discuss whether an endoscopic investigation or treatment is appropriate as part of your assessment.
You can attend without knowing the diagnosis or procedure name. It is useful to bring any referral letters, scan reports, a list of medicines and details of previous abdominal operations.
Discuss the symptoms, when they started, what makes them better or worse, and how they affect everyday life.
Examination and targeted investigations are considered when they are likely to add useful information.
Review what has been found and discuss appropriate options, including observation or non-operative care where suitable.
Important safety information
A routine private consultation is not an emergency service. If you are worried that symptoms are severe or worsening, seek help promptly.
If symptoms are severe, progress quickly, or you are unsure how urgent they are, seek emergency help rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
This list is not exhaustive and cannot determine the cause of your symptoms. If you think you may be seriously unwell, do not wait for a website or private appointment to advise you.
Further trusted information
This page is a general guide, not a diagnostic tool. These NHS pages provide additional information about common symptoms and when to seek help.
You do not need to decide what operation you might need before seeking an assessment. For private appointment enquiries at Sulis Hospital Bath or Spire South Bank Hospital in Worcester, contact the practice team.