Hywel Dda Health Board has issued a warning that all of its Emergency Departments (A&Es) are under significant pressure today (Sunday, December 15) - sharing advice with anyone thinking of visiting departments in localities such as Withybush in Haverfordwest, and Glangwili in Carmarthen - only to do so if you have a life-threatening illness or serious injury.

Please read and share the advice below that could help you make decisions about the best health care for your urgent need.

If you are feeling unwell and unsure what to do, the NHS 111 Wales website should be your first point of call: https://111.wales.nhs.uk/

For urgent mental health support please call 111 and select option 2. For advice and support from a mental health professional 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Only attend an Emergency Department if you have a life-threatening illness or serious injury, such as:

• Severe breathing difficulties

• Severe pain or bleeding

• Chest pain or a suspected stroke

• Serious trauma injuries (eg. from a car crash)

If you have a less serious injury then please visit one of our Minor Injury Units. They can treat adults and children over 12-months of age, with injuries such as:

• Minor wounds

• Minor burns or scalds

• Insect bites

• Minor limb, head, or face injuries

• Foreign bodies in the nose or ear

For details on our minor injury unit locations and opening times, please check our website: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/hospitals-and-centres/minor-injury-units/

Glangwili Hospital
(Stock Image)

Many community pharmacies can also provide walk-in, common ailment or triage and treat services without an appointment.

You can find out more: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/healthcare/services-and-teams/pharmacy/

If you have a relative or loved one in hospital who is well enough to go home, but is waiting to be discharged with homecare and community health support, you may be able to help them to get home more quickly if you and your family are in a position to support them at home.

You can find out more about the hospital discharge process and guidance here: https://hduhb.nhs.wales/patient-information/inpatient-and-outpatient/inpatient-information/