When should I come to A&E?

Accident and emergency (A&E) departments prioritise only the most urgent cases. You should only consider calling 999 or coming to A&E if you, or another person requiring treatment, is suffering from one of the following:
• Sudden and/or persistent chest pain, or severe pain elsewhere in the body
• Loss of consciousness
• Difficulty breathing
• Heavy blood loss
• Broken or suspected broken bones
• Overdose or poisoning
• Severe burns
• Severe allergic reaction
• Suspected stroke
• Any other life-threatening critical illness or injury

The NHS Direct website has more information on possible heart attack or stroke symptoms.

If your condition is minor it may be more appropriate to use an alternative to A&E.