To not know whether to use the GP or minor injuries?

[ApignamedJasper]

Last night, in the middle of the night, my thumb and hand started hurting. A lot. The pain was so bad I couldn't sleep most of the night and painkillers did not help.

Not sure why it is hurting as I don't recall injuring it recently but I want to get it checked out and since I'm supposed to be working today and tomorrow I would rather get is seen to as soon as possible.

Have taken today off as I can't grip or lift anything and my job involves a lot of both.

Only GP appointment I can get is for this afternoon, which is fine but it's very painful and I can't really use my hand in the meantime. Would I be better off going to the minor injuries unit? It's not an emergency so I wouldn't use A&E but would ibu to use minor injuries when I could be seen by the GP?

Either GP or minor injury unit would be fine. Personally I'd wait for the GP as there is no history but I'm a GP so biased

...no history of injury

I'd go to a GP, because you don't remember injuring it so you probably won't get far at Minor Injuries, but I think you could do either.

Getting an appointment this afternoon isn't that bad really, I suppose. At least it's today!

Have you tried ice or heat?

IME it is better to see the GP first, who might send you to minor injuries for an X-ray after. They will be expecting you then and the process is quicker and easier.

I would wait for gp personally as minor injuries would likely send you there anyway if you don't recall an injury. Gp will better be able to refer you on to hospital for scan/xray if needed and will be able to prescribe better drugs.