Should I call 111 and 999? Who to phone in medical emergency

No matter how severe, any kind of medical issue is scary and in the moment you may find yourself instinctively calling 999, when actually 111 could be more suited to your situation.

So you don't get caught out, here is a rundown of the difference between 111 and 999 from the NHS.

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Should I ring 111 or 999?

Put simply 999 is for emergencies and 111 is for non-emergencies.

When should I call 111?

"You should call 111 if you think you may need to go to A&E, but the situation isn’t life or limb-threatening," the NHS says on it's website. 

"A trained operator can provide you with urgent care and assessment over the phone."

Problems you can call 111 for include:

• Suspected broken bones
• Sprains
• Burns
• Cuts

The NHS adds: "Through 111 you can have a telephone or video consultation with a clinician, or they may book you an appointment to attend A&E or the Minor Injuries Unit."

Ambulance response categories explained

When should I call 999?

"You should call 999 in a life-threatening medical emergency", the NHS continues.

Cases and symptoms you should call 999 for include:

• Heart attack – a pain like a band, weight or squeezing in your chest
• Chest pain
• Breathing problems – choking or gasping, can’t get words out
• Stroke – face drooping on one side, difficulty speaking, can’t raise arms
• Fits – shaking or jerking uncontrollably, can be conscious or unconscious
• Loss of consciousness
• Severe bleeding – a heavy flow that won’t stop
• Rapid swelling – eyes, lips, mouth, throat or tongue
• Allergic reactions
• Severe burns
• Major trauma such as from traffic accidents, stabbing, shooting, a fall or serious head injury

Don't dismiss the early signs of a heart attack.

A squeezing across the chest. A feeling of unease. It’s never too early to call 999 and describe your symptoms.

➡️ https://t.co/dGDJoF0oWn pic.twitter.com/WfXTwFx4UA

— NHS (@NHSuk) October 21, 2024

Not sure who to call?

If you are still unsure about which number to call, the NHS said to "always make 111 your first choice".

The national health service added: "They will ask questions about the issue and get you the help you need."

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If you have a less serious issue you can contact NHS GP which is an online service giving you access to:

• A range of health management tools
• GP video consultations
• Ongoing prescriptions or appointments at your local GP

For more information about dealing with medical emergencies visit the NHS website (a link to which can be found above).