Heroic: Fortis Cardiologist saves runner's life by performing CPR at Delhi Half Marathon

New Delhi: Quick intervention and timely Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) by a non-invasive cardiologist, recently saved the life of a fellow runner who collapsed during the Delhi Half Marathon at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. 

The doctor, Ramit Wadhwa is being hailed as a hero after he acted on time to save the runner who collapsed mid-race due to dehydration and drowsiness. His prompt reaction to address emergencies has demonstrated his medical proficiency.

Dr Wadhwa is a consultant of non-invasive Cardiology at Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram who also participated in the race. 

The incident came to light when Dr Ramit Wadhwa noticed the man collapse unexpectedly during the race and other runners were trying to help him. He noticed that the runner was extremely dehydrated, drowsy, and disoriented, he found his pulse weak but present. The runner clenched his teeth, bit his tongue, and started vomiting. Not thinking twice, Dr Wandhwa acted immediately and performed CPR on him. Later, the runner came to his senses and was transferred to the nearest hospital. 

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"With the help of fellow runners, we administered CPR while I worked to maintain his airway. Shortly after, an ambulance arrived, and he was immediately transported to a nearby medical camp. On our way, we inserted an IV cannula, started IV fluids, and supported his respiration with an ambu bag and mask. On reaching the camp, the patient regained consciousness but remained disoriented, agitated, and confused. A team of doctors from a nearby hospital attended to him, and he gradually became stable," said Dr Wadhwa. 

Further, he told The patriot, “Such endurance runs require proper training for 3-6 months, depending on how active a person is. Before participating in these events, one must undergo a few basic cardiac check-ups like ECG, ECHO STRESS, and ECHO—depending on the age of the athlete. It is very important to take care of hydration and electrolytes during the run, as there is a tendency to sweat and lose electrolytes, which can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, triggering fatal cardiac arrhythmias. Also, it is very important to educate people about CPR training so that they can provide basic life support until an ambulance or medical help arrives, as those initial moments are very crucial for that patient,” he added.

Medical Dialogues had earlier reported a similar incident where a doctor saved a 60-year-old man who suffered a heart attack at Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 2. A video of the doctor's heroic efforts went viral on social media, drawing admiration from the public.

Also read- Heroic: Woman doctor saves 60-year-old man by performing CPR at Delhi Airport