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Heavy pain in my chest

Choose Well Red 2010

If you feel heavy pain in your chest (and in some cases left arm) you should call 999 and ask for an ambulance.


Ensure the pain isn't temporary or a mild irritation such as heartburn and make sure you have alerted someone to help you if needed.


A potential heart attack is a medical emergency and should be seen to immediately. The operator will give you further instructions.


If someone can get you to Southampton General Hospital, dial 999 regardless so they can expect your arrival.

 

 

 

Accident and Emergency departments should only be used in a critical or life-threatening situation. A&E departments provide emergency care for people who develop the rapid onset of symptoms of serious illness or are badly injured.  

You may need to attend A&E to have urgent tests to rule out certain diagnoses, and you may be referred after first contacting NHS Direct or your GP for advice.

If you suspect an injury is serious go straight to an A&E department or dial 999 and ask for an ambulance.

 


 

Make sure A&E is available for you or your loved ones are seriously ill or injured by not choosing this service unless you really need it. Your GP can advise you on an alternative service or you can call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.

 


 

The only Accident and Emergency Department is available at Southampton General Hospital.

 

Do not go to the Royal South Hants or Moorgreen Hospital - there is no Accident and Emegency treatment available.

 


Some examples of health problems that could be serious are:

  • collapse or loss of consciousness
  • sudden or severe confusion
  • severe chest pain
  • severe breathing difficulties
  • heavy blood loss
  • extreme allergic reaction
  • loss of movement or mobility


999

 

Dialing 999 is for emergency only.

 


 

If you have a medical emergency and need an ambulance call 999.

 


 

The operator will ask you some questions, such as if the injured person is breathing, is bleeding seriously or is having chest pain.

 


 

Only use this service if there is a medical emergency.

 


 

Links

 


 

 

Choose Well helps you decide what sort of medical help you require and provides information about the local NHS services available to you.

It also gives you details about what each service offers you, how to contact them and how to find them, should you need to travel to them.

It's important to know the correct services to use in Southampton. By using the right level of treatment, you have a better chance of being treated quickly and ensuring priority services are given to those who need them the most.

Click on the thermometer scale below to find out about the various levels of services.
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