SOUTHAMPTON'S main hospital has warned that its emergency department is under "severe pressure".

Posting on social media on Wednesday, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust said patients waiting to be seen and treated faced "significant" delays.

The Trust urged people to help ease the pressure on the NHS by choosing the right service for their condition.

It posted a link to its website, which says: "Hospitals and ambulances remain really busy treating patients who are very ill, but there are lots of alternative services available if your condition is not serious or life-threatening."

People calling 111 will be directed to the most appropriate service for their needs, which could be their GP practice or a local pharmacy.

"Urgent treatment centres and minor injuries units can help with a number of conditions including cuts and grazes, infected wounds, broken bones or fractures, sprains and strains, bites and stings minor head injuries and minor eye problems.

"If you have a minor illness phone your GP practice or use the Econsult function on your practice website.

"You can also go to a local high street or supermarket pharmacy and seek advice there. If you are unsure contact  NHS 111."

But the website says anyone experiencing a medical emergency should be taken to A&E.

"Medical emergencies can include loss of consciousness, an acute confused state, fits that are not stopping, chest pain, breathing difficulties, severe bleeding that cannot be stopped, severe allergic reactions severe burns or scalds.

"Call 999 immediately if you or someone else is having a heart attack or stroke. Every second counts with these conditions.

"Also call 999 if you think someone has had a major trauma, such as after a serious road traffic accident, a stabbing, a shooting, a fall from height, or a serious head injury.

"You can help ease the pressure on local health services by making sure you are ready to treat common illnesses and injuries at home.

"Keep stocked up on essentials such as paracetamol, bandages and upset tummy remedies, and order repeat prescriptions in good time so that you don't run out."

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