Should I bother the GP with this?

[tulippa]

In normal times I would book a non urgent appointment with the GP with this but not sure if I should at the moment.

I had awful chest pain at the beginning of December which was diagnosed by GP as pleurisy. It calmed down after a few days and had gone completely by the week before Christmas. Felt completely fine.

On 27th December I was woken up in the night with the chest pain returning. Really severe but not quite as bad as the first time round. I was able to keep it at bay with a combination of cocodamol and ibuprofen and it went after a day. Was completely fine again.

This Saturday the pain came back and lasted until Monday. Again could keep it bearable with painkillers but was still pretty miserable. The pain goes as soon as it comes. I'll just realise that it doesn't hurt anymore and that's that. I have been fine again since.

I can breathe ok throughout the bouts of pain but it does hurt. I think it's the sudden onset and then stopping that feels weird. Is this just the pleurisy sorting itself out or something else that needs investigating?

Sorry that should read the pain goes as quickly as it comes.

You should definitely see your GP. Please don't worry about "bothering" them, they are still open and you are allowed to see them. I hope everything is ok and you feel much better soon.

Yes I probably should. Just feel a bit odd going now that I feel ok again but it's playing on my mind that it could start up at any point without warning. Thanks.

Yes, please seek medical help about this.

Btw I am a GP.

Absolutely see the GP - you're not talking about a little topical rash, or a slight sniffle - severe pain of any type should be investigated, but especially severe chest pain.

You aren’t bothering them.

Of course you should get chest pain checked out.

I work at a GP as a receptionist definitely consult GP, they are still working , I think at most surgeries you speak over the phone first then if they need to see you that is arranged. Where I work there are face to face clinics every day.

@chinateapot
Can I just ask is this sort of coming and going pain normal after pleurisy or could it indicate something else?

I suppose it is easier now that you can speak to the GP on the phone first. Will get in contact.

Hi @tulippa it could be pleurisy but honestly also could be lots of other stuff - bottom line is chest pain needs proper clinical assessment. GP will prob do telephone appointment first and then will be able to decide best way forward (which can range between 999 and reassurance after telephone consult!)

999 always appropriate for severe not settling pain and 111 useful if GP shut or while waiting for appointment if you’re not sure if 999 needed.

Good luck!

Will make the phone call today - thanks!