Latest news with #ChooniLal
Express Tribune
07-02-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
Love-sick US woman discharged from hospital, departs for home
Listen to article KARACHI: Security and health officials heaved a sigh of relief as the 35-year-old American woman, Onija Andrew Robbins, who has been receiving psychiatric treatment at JPMC, was declared fit to travel and discharged on Friday evening. She was escorted to the Women Police Station by an all-female squad from where she was taken to the Jinnah Interantional Terminal and put on a flight back home. Earlier, hospital officials confirmed that arrangements for her travel, including necessary documents and an air ticket, were pending from the US Consulate General in Karachi. Once the formalities were complete, she was sent off. The hospital had been in regular communication with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the US diplomatic mission regarding her return. Medical reports had indicated major improvement in her condition. Her hemoglobin level had risen from four to 9.9. However, she continued to battle bipolar disorder, which would require ongoing treatment. According to Prof Chooni Lal, head of the Medical Board overseeing her care, patients with such conditions tend to recover faster when surrounded by family and in a familiar environment. Dr Salman, Joint Executive Director of JPMC, confirmed that the Medical Board had submitted its report on Friday, declaring her fit to travel. Once the US Consulate finalises her travel documents, she will be discharged and flown back to the United States. The FIA and the US Consulate are coordinating with the hospital to ensure smooth arrangements for her departure. Robbins, who travelled to Karachi to be with a young man she fell in love with online, was admitted to JPMC Psychiatry Ward a week ago after she was ditched by her love. Initial medical tests and psychiatric evaluations led to her transfer to the Special Care Unit. On February 3, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
Express Tribune
04-02-2025
- Health
- Express Tribune
US woman seeking husband in Karachi diagnosed with bipolar disorder
Listen to article KARACHI: An American woman who travelled to Karachi in search of her husband has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder, low hemoglobin level and other ailments. Two days ago, 33 years old, Onija Andrew Robinson was admitted to psychiatric ward of Jinnah Hospital where dedicated team of doctors is monitoring her health issue. According to Prof Dr Chooni Lal , Head of the Psychiatry Department at Jinnah Hospital, the woman's psychiatric condition, along with other health concerns, were identified through a series of medical tests. The patient's Bipolar Disorder has been ongoing, with treatment also being pursued in the United States. In addition to psychiatric issues, the woman has a notably low hemoglobin level, which led to her undergoing two blood transfusions. Furthermore, liver problems were also seen. In an interview with The Express Tribune , Dr Lal explained that the patient was initially admitted to the psychiatric ward; however, due to overcrowding, she was transferred to the Special Ward under police custody for better care. He further stated that once the patient's condition improves, the Sindh government will be notified. Meanwhile, Professor Dr Muhammad Iqbal Afridi, a psychiatrist, provided additional insight into Bipolar Disorder, telling Express Tribune that this mental health condition is chronic but manageable through medication and therapy. People with this disorder experience significant mood fluctuations, which can lead to episodes of deep sadness or intense happiness. Dr Afridi highlighted that 2% of the population is affected by bipolar disorder, and approximately 80% of cases are hereditary. Often, patients with this condition experience severe depression, and in some cases, they may be inclined toward substance abuse or even suicide. Both men and women can suffer from bipolar disorder, which causes sufferers to make erratic decisions and sometimes consider self-harm. Symptoms include mental stress, sadness, anxiety, loss of appetite, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and a loss of self-confidence. Bipolar disorder causes sufferers to experience extreme highs and lows, sometimes leading them to contemplate or attempt suicide. As the disorder worsens, patients may lose the ability to control their emotions and actions, often rendering them incapable of managing their behaviour. Treatment from a mental health professional is essential for managing the condition. The staff at the special ward noted that the patient has refused to eat the hospital's meals, opting instead for fast food. She has also made requests for food from the police custody personnel and medical staff.
