Accident & Emergency Care in Lagos: When to Visit A&E and What to Expect

Heart attack, stroke and serious injury — when to go to A&E, what triage means and how to act fast. 24/7 emergency care at Starcare, Ikeja.

Starcare International Hospital · No. 21, Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Maryland-GRA, Ikeja, Lagos
+234 9152 70 70 70 · WhatsApp +234 9154 70 70 70

When a medical emergency strikes — a road accident, chest pain, a severe injury or a sudden collapse — minutes matter. Knowing when to go to Accident & Emergency (A&E), and what happens when you arrive, can save a life. Our emergency team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, explains when to come, what to expect, and how to act fast.

  • 24/7
    emergency care, every day of the year
  • Minutes
    matter in stroke and heart attack
  • Triage
    the sickest are seen first
  • Call ahead
    where possible, so we're ready

A&E is for genuine emergencies — life- or limb-threatening problems that cannot wait. For these, do not delay. Our Accident & Emergency service in Ikeja is open around the clock.

When to Go to A&E Immediately

Signs of a heart attack

Central chest pain or pressure, possibly spreading to the arm, neck or jaw, with sweating or breathlessness.

Signs of a stroke (act F.A.S.T.)

Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty — it is Time to call for help. Stroke treatment is time-critical.

Serious injury or accident

Major trauma from road accidents, heavy bleeding that won't stop, severe burns, or a suspected broken bone with deformity.

Other emergencies

Difficulty breathing, fits (convulsions), sudden severe abdominal pain, loss of consciousness, or a severe allergic reaction.

⚠ Important: In stroke and heart attack, "wait and see" can cost the brain or heart muscle that cannot be recovered. If in doubt, treat it as an emergency and come in — it is always better to be checked.

What Happens When You Arrive

  • Triage: a quick assessment so the sickest patients are treated first — not strictly first-come, first-served
  • Assessment: tests, scans and treatment as needed
  • Next steps: admission, surgery, transfer to intensive care, or discharge with a plan

Save Our Emergency Number Now

Programme Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, into your phone today — +234 9152 70 70 70 — so you can act fast when it matters.

Book an Appointment →

How to Help Before You Arrive

Stay calm and call ahead

If you can, let us know you are coming so the team is ready.

Don't move accident victims unnecessarily

Unless there is immediate danger, avoid moving someone with a possible spine injury.

Bring medication details

A list of current medicines and known allergies helps us treat safely and quickly.

Emergency or Not? At a Glance

SituationWhere to GoChest pain, stroke signsA&E immediatelyHeavy bleeding, major injuryA&E immediatelyHigh fever in a babyA&E / same-day reviewMinor cuts, mild coldClinic / outpatient visit

Frequently Asked Questions

These are the questions our patients in Lagos ask most often. For anything specific to your case, our specialist team at Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, is always available to help.

Should I drive myself to A&E with chest pain?

No — if you have chest pain you may not be safe to drive. Call for help or have someone bring you in immediately.

Will I be seen straight away at A&E?

Patients are seen in order of how serious their condition is (triage), not arrival time. The most critical cases are treated first.

What is the F.A.S.T. test for stroke?

Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty — Time to get emergency help. Any one of these signs means act immediately.

Can I bring a relative who collapsed?

Yes, bring them in urgently, or call for assistance. Note the time symptoms started — it is vital information for the team.

Final Takeaway: Know the Signs, Act Fast

Emergencies are frightening, but knowing the warning signs and where to go removes precious seconds of hesitation. Save our number, learn the F.A.S.T. signs, and never hesitate when life or limb is at risk. Starcare International Hospital, Ikeja, is ready 24/7.

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Tags: Emergency Care Lagos · A&E Ikeja · Heart Attack Signs · Stroke FAST · 24/7 Hospital Lagos

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