Feeling unwell at events can be scary. Here’s how to handle health emergencies:

Immediate Assessment

Recognize Serious Symptoms

• Chest pain or difficulty breathing: Seek immediate medical help
• Severe dizziness or fainting: Sit down immediately, get help
• Nausea with severe headache: Could indicate heat stroke or dehydration
• Allergic reactions: Swelling, rash, difficulty swallowing
• Alcohol poisoning: Confusion, vomiting, irregular breathing

Common Event-Related Issues

• Dehydration: Headache, dizziness, dry mouth (common in Nairobi’s altitude)
• Heat exhaustion: Sweating, weakness, nausea at outdoor events
• Anxiety attacks: Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath in crowds
• Food poisoning: Stomach pain, nausea from venue food
• Overstimulation: Headaches from loud music, flashing lights

Getting Help at Events

Find Medical Support

• First aid stations: Most major events have designated medical areas
• Security personnel: Can radio for medical assistance or direct you to help
• Venue staff: Hotel staff, restaurant managers often have first aid training
• Other attendees: Many Kenyans have basic first aid knowledge
• Call emergency services: 999 or 911 for serious situations

Communicating Your Condition

• Be specific: “I have chest pain” not “I don’t feel good”
• Mention medications: Allergies, current prescriptions, medical conditions
• Share emergency contacts: Have someone’s number who can make decisions for you
• Language: Speak in English, Kiswahili, or ask for translator help

Self-Care Strategies

For Dehydration/Heat Issues

• Find shade immediately: Move away from direct sunlight
• Drink water slowly: Small sips, not large gulps
• Loosen clothing: Remove jackets, loosen collars
• Cool compresses: Ask for wet cloths for neck, wrists
• Elevate feet: If dizzy, lie down with feet raised

For Anxiety/Panic

• Move to quieter area: Away from crowds, loud music
• Breathing exercises: Slow, deep breaths in through nose, out through mouth
• Ground yourself: Name 5 things you can see, 4 you can hear, 3 you can touch
• Call someone: Familiar voice can help calm anxiety
• Fresh air: Step outside if possible

For Nausea/Stomach Issues

• Stop eating/drinking: Don’t consume more until symptoms subside
• Find bathroom: Locate facilities before you absolutely need them
• Small sips: Water or ginger ale if available
• Sit down: Don’t try to “power through” standing
• Avoid alcohol: Will make symptoms worse

Venue-Specific Help

Hotel Events (Serena, Hilton, etc.)

• Hotel medical: Many upscale hotels have on-call doctors or nurses
• Room service: Can deliver basic medications, electrolyte drinks
• Transportation: Hotels can arrange taxi to hospital if needed
• Staff training: Hotel staff usually well-trained in emergency response

Outdoor Events (Carnivore, Uhuru Gardens)

• Event medics: Large outdoor events required to have medical stations
• Ambulance access: Check if ambulances can reach the venue
• Shade areas: Look for tents or covered areas to cool down
• Water stations: Free water usually available at legitimate events

Club/Bar Events

• Bouncer assistance: Security staff often trained in basic first aid
• Manager access: Ask to speak to manager for serious issues
• Transportation: Uber/Bolt may be faster than waiting for ambulance
• Avoid bathroom: Unless absolutely necessary – not safe when unwell

When to Seek Professional Help

Go to Hospital Immediately

• Severe chest pain: Could indicate heart issues
• High fever with confusion: Possible serious infection
• Severe allergic reactions: Difficulty breathing, widespread swelling
• Head injuries: From falls, fights, or accidents
• Poisoning symptoms: Severe vomiting, confusion, difficulty breathing

Nairobi Hospital Options

• Nairobi Hospital: Argwings Kodhek Road – major emergency services
• Aga Khan Hospital: Third Parklands – excellent emergency care
• MP Shah Hospital: Near Museum Hill – good for general emergencies
• Kenyatta National Hospital: Free emergency care, but often crowded

Prevention Strategies

Before the Event

• Medication prep: Bring any regular medications plus extras
• Medical ID: Bracelet or phone app with emergency medical info
• Emergency contacts: Program ICE (In Case of Emergency) numbers
• Health insurance: Bring cards and know your coverage
• Buddy system: Designate someone to watch out for your health

During the Event

• Pace yourself: Don’t try to do everything at once
• Regular check-ins: Ask yourself “How am I feeling?” hourly
• Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly, especially at outdoor events
• Eat regularly: Don’t skip meals before or during long events
• Limit alcohol: Know your limits and stick to them

Smart Preparation

• Basic first aid kit: Pain relievers, antacids, bandages
• Emergency cash: For taxi to hospital if needed
• Phone charged: Keep power bank for emergency calls
• Comfortable shoes: Prevent falls and foot problems
• Weather appropriate: Dress for conditions to avoid heat/cold stress

Key Message: Don’t try to “tough it out” – your health is more important than missing part of an event. Seek help early before problems become serious.