Initially, Foldi wanted to return to Hungary for treatment. However, after doctors explained the emergency and the risks of delaying care, he agreed to immediate intervention in Hanoi.

According to Master of Science, Doctor Nguyen Dinh Cong, Deputy Head of Cardiology - Interventional Cardiology at Hong Ngoc General Hospital Phuc Truong Minh, the patient was admitted with high fever, profuse sweating, chills, and chest pain. He had a medical history of hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia. At Hong Ngoc General Hospital Phuc Truong Minh, doctors conducted a thorough examination.

Test results revealed elevated cardiac enzymes and changes in his electrocardiogram, indicating acute myocardial ischemia. A coronary CT scan confirmed severe coronary artery disease, with critical narrowing in three coronary branches.

Angiography images show severe narrowing in the patient's coronary artery. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Angiography images show severe narrowing in the patient's coronary artery. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Doctor Cong assessed this as a dangerous acute myocardial infarction. He noted that without prompt treatment, the patient could face severe, potentially life-threatening complications.

The cardiology team opted for a combined intervention involving stent placement and drug-eluting balloon angioplasty. The primary goal was to restore blood flow to the heart while optimizing the effectiveness of long-term treatment.

The intervention was successful. Blood flow to the heart was restored, and the patient's vital signs stabilized. After two days of monitoring, he recovered sufficiently and was cleared for discharge.

Before leaving the hospital, Foldi confirmed that his health had stabilized. He expressed appreciation for the clear explanation of his condition and the rapid treatment he received during the emergency.

Joseph Foldi with his wife and the medical team before discharge. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Joseph Foldi with his wife and the medical team before discharge. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital

Doctor Cong explained that acute myocardial infarction can occur suddenly. Patients typically experience angina, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, or unusual fatigue. In some cases, particularly among older adults, individuals with diabetes, or those with hypertension, symptoms may be atypical.

When experiencing persistent chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, sweating, or a heavy sensation in the chest, individuals should seek medical attention promptly. Self-monitoring or delaying treatment can significantly increase the risk of arrhythmias, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and even death.

According to a hospital representative, for international patients, language barriers, insurance procedures, and medical records can complicate urgent treatment. In Foldi's case, the hospital facilitated communication in English, provided bilingual medical records, and contacted his insurance provider in Hungary to streamline the billing process.

Hong Ngoc General Hospital currently offers examinations, emergency care, and treatment to domestic patients, as well as foreigners living, working, or traveling in Vietnam.

Information for contact:

Hong Ngoc General Hospital

55 Yen Ninh, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi

8 Chau Van Liem, Tu Liem Ward, Hanoi

Hotline: 0911 858 626