Emergencies, Accidents & Illnesses

In an emergency (eg severe chest pain, perhaps a heart attack or severe asthma) dial 999. This is the fastest way to get help.

If you are experiencing the pain of a heart attack, chew one soluble aspirin tablet while awaiting the ambulance.

You can ring NHS Direct 24 hour helpline for advice on 0845 4647.

If you have one of the common ‘part of life’ illnesses, such as sore throat, flu, a cough or diarrhoea and vomiting, please refer to your practice booklet. It is good practice to try ‘self help’ first using medication approved for the family medicine chest.

If the problem can wait until the morning then let it – remember that all urgencies will be seen the same day.