Thong Nhat Hospital announced on November 5 that Nguyen Van Be Hai, a doctor at the hospital, had helped the passenger after she became unwell during a Vietnam Airlines flight from Buon Ma Thuot to Ho Chi Minh City.
The flight took off at 7.50 pm on November 2. About 15 minutes after take-off, the woman began experiencing trembling in her hands and legs, dizziness and nausea.
A cardiologist gives timely support to a female passenger with high blood pressure (Photo: Hospital).
Cabin crew quickly provided initial assistance, but her symptoms showed no improvement after about 10 minutes. The flight crew then made an announcement asking whether any medical professionals were on board.
Dr Be Hai, who was seated about two rows away from the passenger, immediately went to help. Four doctors from another hospital also joined the response. After learning of his cardiology expertise, they worked together to allow him to assess and treat the passenger.
An examination found that her blood pressure was 160/90 mmHg. Dr Be Hai assessed that she was experiencing high blood pressure, accompanied by dizziness and nausea.
He reassured the passenger, administered medication and continued to monitor her condition. After about 15 minutes, her health improved, with the dizziness gradually subsiding and her condition becoming more stable.
After the aircraft landed, Dr Be Hai informed the airport medical team of the passenger's condition and the treatment provided so that they could take over and conduct further assessments.
Following the incident, Dr Be Hai advised people with hypertension to take their medication as prescribed, monitor their blood pressure regularly and have it checked before flying.
He warned that changes in air pressure during a flight could affect blood pressure levels.
