How does Ask A&E work?
You will be asked a series of questions via the Ask A&E symptom checker.
Based on the information you provide, you will be given information to help you decide what to do next. In certain situations, and based on the information provided, you may decide that your condition can be managed at home or with over-the-counter medication.
In other circumstances, you may decide to book an appointment with your usual GP, or, if your symptoms are potentially more serious, you may decide to go to A&E. Please note that the final decision on how to treat yourself is always yours.
Why do I need to create an account?
Creating an account, helps the symptom checker give a tailored outcome.
The person using the symptom checker must be the person who registers.
When shouldn't I use Ask A&E?
Ask A&E is not intended for use during pregnancy, or by those under the age of 16. There are some situations where immediate medical attention via A&E may be required. These include, but are not limited to:
- chest pain
- severe bleeding
- severe difficulty in breathing (shortness of breath)
- sudden, severe pain anywhere in the body
- moderate to severe burns
- convulsions or seizures
- sudden change in mental status (such as unusual behaviour, confusion, difficulty waking from sleep)
- head or spinal injuries
- wound or injury caused by an object piercing the skin
- serious limb impairment or broken bone
- potential signs of severe allergy, such as lip or tongue swelling
In certain circumstances, we recommend that you always have an appointment with a doctor. These include, but are not limited to:
- mental health concerns
- pregnancy and post-natal concerns
- recent surgery
- if your immune system is significantly weak, e.g. due to taking specific medications or an underlying condition
- known HIV or AIDS
- active tuberculosis
- fever after travel outside of Europe or North America
- new or rapidly changing rashes
- if you are considering harming yourself or taking your own life
