Doctor’s Question Helps Save Girl’s Life
A simple question from a doctor helped uncover the seriousness of a 17-year-old girl’s condition and led to urgent action that saved her life.
Dr. Ahmed Al Madhoub was working at a government health centre when the girl arrived with her mother and sister. Her mother was speaking on her behalf, while the girl’s condition had continued to worsen as her family waited for her to improve.
Al Madhoub asked if he could hear the girl speak for herself.
Her response immediately raised concern. She could barely speak and struggled to get the words out, sounding as though she was being strangled. Al Madhoub could not make out what she was saying.
The swelling in her throat had progressed to the point of closing it. She was struggling to breathe and had not eaten for three days.
Al Madhoub called a colleague, a family doctor, and the two decided that an ambulance was needed immediately because of the seriousness of her condition.
Taking her to the hospital by themselves was not appropriate. She needed to be transported directly to the emergency department by ambulance so treatment could begin as soon as she arrived, without delay.
Sometimes, Al Madhoub said, a doctor’s role is not only to provide treatment but also to keep a patient alive long enough to receive it.
The girl survived and, 11 years later, remains Al Madhoub’s patient. She also continues to remember the details of that day.
Al Madhoub said he shares the case not to frighten people, but to raise awareness about the importance of recognising serious symptoms and seeking urgent medical attention when necessary.
Acting quickly, he said, can be the difference between life and death.
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