Egyptian pilgrim survives heart attack, to resume Hajj after treatment in Saudi Arabia

Mecca: An Egyptian pilgrim who suffered a major heart attack shortly after arriving in Saudi Arabia is recovering and expected to complete his Hajj pilgrimage, thanks to a rapid medical intervention coordinated through the Kingdom’s Urgent Care System.

The man began experiencing worsening chest pain soon after leaving the airport, according to the Makkah Health Cluster. Despite the discomfort, he proceeded with plans to perform Umrah. As his symptoms escalated, he alerted the group’s accompanying physician, who quickly performed an electrocardiogram (ECG) and diagnosed a critical heart attack.

In a crucial moment, the physician contacted the emergency hotline at King Abdullah Medical City. The patient was immediately accepted and transferred directly to the catheterization lab. A diagnostic procedure confirmed the need for emergency open-heart surgery.

Surgeons successfully completed the operation, which involved grafting two major arteries and repairing the mitral valve. The procedure was conducted within a highly coordinated medical system designed to support pilgrims during the Hajj season.

The patient's recovery is now underway, and he is preparing to complete his Hajj under close medical supervision throughout the season, assisted by a smartwatch linked to the Seha Virtual Hospital.

The incident highlights the advanced preparedness and compassionate care provided by King Abdullah Medical City in serving pilgrims from around the world.