In some cases, there is no time to wait or hesitate. Knowing when to dial 999 or proceed directly to the nearest NHS Accident and Emergency (A&E) department can be crucial. The following list, while not exhaustive, highlights situations where immediate medical attention is necessary, and a GP consultation is not appropriate:

• Loss of Consciousness: Any unexplained loss of consciousness or unresponsiveness should be treated as an emergency.
• Acute Confusion: Sudden and severe confusion or disorientation, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like speech difficulties or weakness, requires urgent care.
• Seizure: A new seizure, particularly if the person is not known to have epilepsy, or if the seizure lasts longer than usual for those with a history, needs prompt medical evaluation.
• New Chest Pain (especially if severe): Severe chest pain can indicate a heart attack or other serious cardiac conditions and needs immediate attention.
• Difficulty Breathing: Any sudden or severe breathing difficulties, such as shortness of breath or choking, should be treated as an emergency.
• Severe Burns or Scalds: Major burns, especially those covering large areas of the body or involving the face, hands, or genitals, require urgent care.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as swelling of the face, lips, or throat, difficulty breathing, or a widespread rash could indicate anaphylaxis, which needs immediate treatment.
• Severe Bleeding: Uncontrollable bleeding or major blood loss necessitates rapid medical intervention.
• Severe Abdominal Pain: Sudden, intense abdominal pain can be a sign of serious conditions like appendicitis or ruptured aneurysm.
• Severe and Sudden Headache: A sudden, severe headache, particularly if it is the “worst ever” or accompanied by neck stiffness, visual changes, or neurological symptoms, needs urgent evaluation.
• High Fever with Dizziness: High fever, especially if accompanied by dizziness, confusion, or rash, can indicate serious infections or other medical conditions.
• Rapidly Worsening Symptoms: Any symptom that is severe and rapidly worsening, such as acute pain, swelling, or sudden weakness, should prompt immediate medical attention.