UrgentHelp
Who to call, and when.
Most aches and injuries can wait a day or two for us. A few need a doctor today, and a very few need 999. This page helps you tell them apart.
Emergency
Call 999 or go to A&E
If you have:
- A serious injury: a bone that looks out of place, a wound that won't stop bleeding, a head injury with confusion or vomiting
- Back pain with new numbness around your bottom or genitals, or new problems controlling your bladder or bowels
- Chest pain, sudden weakness or numbness in the face, arm or leg, or difficulty speaking
Today
Call NHS 111 or your GP today
If you have:
- Pain with a fever, or a joint that's hot, red and swollen
- Pain that keeps you awake whatever position you're in, and is getting worse
- You feel unwell in yourself as well as in pain
NHS 111 is free and open 24 hours, every day.
Can wait for us
Ring us
If you have:
- A new sprain, strain or ache from something you did
- Long-standing pain that's stopping you doing things
- Stiffness after an operation or a fracture that has healed
We keep a few short-notice appointments every day.
If you're not sure, ring NHS 111. It's free, open all day and night, and they'll tell you where to go.