What does GP consultation treat?

A GP can listen to your symptoms, examine you, review medicines, arrange tests, give initial treatment, and monitor recovery. Examples include allergic rhinitis, cold sores, anal fissure, Bell's palsy, benign positional vertigo, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and cluster headache. The same appointment may also address several concerns when you explain which problem is most urgent.

Some problems need specialist care or hospital assessment from the outset. A GP can recognise warning signs, coordinate referral, and explain what to do while you wait. The consultation is an assessment and treatment starting point, not a promise that every condition can be managed in primary care.

Before the appointment, note when symptoms began, what changes them, and how they affect sleep, work, eating, movement, or urination. Bring medicine and supplement details, relevant home readings, and previous letters if available. Mention allergies, pregnancy, recent travel, and conditions that may alter treatment choices.

Use emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, collapse, sudden one-sided weakness, new confusion, uncontrolled bleeding, or rapidly worsening illness. For non-emergency symptoms, request a GP appointment when they persist, recur, or interfere with normal activities.

Ask what the likely causes are, whether you need an examination or tests, what treatment is being offered, and which symptoms should trigger urgent help. Confirm how and when follow-up will happen.