When to Call NHS 111 or 999

The Key Difference

Always Call 999 For:

• Chest pain — especially if crushing, tight, or spreading to the arm, jaw, or back
• Difficulty breathing or severe breathlessness
• Signs of stroke: FAST — Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, Time to call 999
• Loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness
• Severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) — throat swelling, hives, dizziness after a trigger
• Serious injuries from accidents, falls, or violence
• Severe burns or chemical injury
• A non-blanching rash with high fever (possible meningococcal disease)
• Major bleeding that won't stop
• Overdose or suspected poisoning
• Suicidal crisis or self-harm in progress
• Choking — especially in a child

999 works on any network, even without credit or a SIM card.

Call NHS 111 For:

• Symptoms that are urgent but not immediately life-threatening
• You think you need to go to A&E but aren't sure
• You need medical help fast but your GP is closed
• A child with a high fever who appears unwell
• A mental health crisis that isn't immediately life-threatening
• You're concerned about medication — doses, interactions, or side effects
• You need to be directed to the right local service (pharmacy, walk-in, out-of-hours GP)
• You have a condition that's getting worse but isn't an emergency yet

NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can also use 111.nhs.uk online.

When to Go Directly to A&E

A&E (Accident and Emergency) should be used for serious, potentially life-threatening conditions that require immediate specialist care or investigation. If it's a true emergency, call 999 for an ambulance — don't drive yourself.

For less urgent needs — such as a minor cut, sprain, or non-emergency injury — consider an Urgent Treatment Centre or minor injuries unit instead. These often have shorter waiting times than A&E.

Other Urgent Care Options