In Pain

[painfulxmas]

For the past few days I've had pain in my side and lower back. It's painful to sit down, bend down and stand up but sitting on the sofa isn't too bad.

I'm wondering whether to go to A and E tomorrow if there is no improvement. I've rung the 111 helpline before and they always seem to we on the side of caution and I imagine they will advise me to go to A and E. I've never been before so I don't want to be waiting for hours or take the place of someone who is in more pain than me. Having said that I've heard stories of people going to A and E for all sorts.

Any advice? If I try and get an appointment at the doctors it will probably be the usual going round the houses crap. Thanks

I think you are right to query going to A and E. At my old A and E they had a massive poster outside saying ‘A and E is for life threatening accidents or emergencies only.’ It was really good because it just made people stop and think whether their emergency was life threatening.

I would add that they had a minor injuries unit attached so you could go there instead.

i would go for Walk-In centre first if I were you and then if they tell you to go, you go on their instruction. I think it’s good if you to think of those who may be doubled-over in pain, vomitting. Well done for being a good person OP. Good luck I hope the pain just goes away on its own! Xxx

Severe pain is a sign that something is wrong. Please go to A & E as soon as you can.

Sounds like a gp scenario rather than filling up an and e with non emergency scenarios.

Round here 111 can book you an appointment at the urgent care centre so I'd call them.