KATHMANDU, Oct 5: The health of senior orthopedic surgeon Dr Govinda KC, who is on a fast-unto-death, has become critical as his hunger strike has already crossed 21 days.
According to a doctor involved in his treatment, Dr KC’s health is deteriorating every day. “Dr KC is having chest pain, and has been put on oxygen support,” Dr Toshima Karki told Republica, adding that Dr KC hasn’t been able to speak since Friday evening.
“Dr KC has also refused ICU care,” she added.
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Dr KC, who is admitted to Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital (TUTU), has been complaining of intermittent palpitations (fast heart beat), chest pain, fatigue, muscle pain, cramps, and repeated episodes of dizziness. “Dr KC developed shortness of breath and his oxygen level is 90-91 percent on room air,” said Dr Subhash Acharya.
“Dr KC’s sugar level is very low, and serum electrolytes (sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and phosphorus) are also critically low. The level of white blood cells in his body is also low, exposing him to infectious complications,” said Dr Acharya, in a statement issued on Sunday evening.
According to doctors, Dr KC is receiving IV normal saline to keep his vein open. Although his health is deteriorating, Dr KC has denied other fluids and electrolytes.
Dr KC has been on a hunger strike demanding reforms in the country’s medical sector.
Despite all this, the government seems unwilling to address the demands of Dr KC. “There has been no initiative from the government to even sit for a meeting with Dr KC,” said Pukar Bam, an aid to Dr KC.
