When a little care is not enough
Self-care is for mild, familiar problems that are improving. You do not need to wait for a symptom to appear on a checklist to ask for help. If something feels seriously wrong, seek medical attention.
Get emergency help now
Call your local emergency number for severe difficulty breathing, chest pressure or pain that may be a heart attack, signs of a stroke, sudden confusion or loss of consciousness, uncontrolled bleeding, or a severe allergic reaction with swelling of the tongue or throat. Sudden severe headache, seizure, or a rapidly deteriorating condition also needs urgent assessment.
Do not drive yourself if you may be seriously unwell. Follow the emergency dispatcher’s instructions.
Ask for urgent medical advice
Examples include inability to keep fluids down with very little urine or marked dizziness; blood in vomit or stool; a painful red eye or sudden vision change; a rapidly spreading hot, painful skin area; a significant burn; or a painful swollen limb. Severe pain or a new symptom that does not fit your usual pattern should not be managed just by browsing articles.
Book a clinician or pharmacist conversation
Get advice for symptoms that persist, recur often, worsen, or interfere with sleeping, eating, drinking, or normal activities. A pharmacist can advise on suitable non-prescription products, interactions, and when another service is needed. Follow the specific time limits and warning signs in the relevant source guidance.
Some people need advice earlier
Pregnancy, frailty, a weakened immune system, and conditions involving the heart, lungs, kidneys, or diabetes can change what is safe at home. These guides are for adults and should not be used as treatment instructions for babies or children.
Find help where you live
Use your country’s official health service, a licensed local pharmacist, a clinician, or your travel insurer’s medical assistance service. Emergency numbers differ between countries. Save the number for your destination before you travel.