Television personality and medical expert Dr Hilary Jones has shared a dramatic personal health scare that saw him urgently transported to hospital amid fears he was suffering a heart attack. The incident occurred while the well-known GP was feeling unwell, prompting paramedics to rush to his aid.
Initial Diagnosis and Medical Intervention
Upon their arrival, the emergency medical team conducted an electrocardiogram (ECG) which initially indicated that Dr Hilary might be experiencing a cardiac event. However, drawing upon his extensive medical expertise, Dr Hilary examined the ECG readings himself alongside the attending paramedics.
Together, they determined that the symptoms were not caused by a heart attack, but rather by two separate conditions: pericarditis and a mild case of pneumonia. Pericarditis involves inflammation of the protective membrane surrounding the heart and often manifests as sharp chest pain, frequently following viral infections like colds or flu, which Dr Hilary had contracted.
Recounting the Emergency Response
Speaking during an appearance on Lorraine, Dr Hilary provided a detailed account of the alarming episode. "I had this virus that is going around, that everybody else seems to have had, and I had a little bit of pneumonia and pericarditis," he explained. "It was quite painful, and I wasn't sure what it was at first... but this excellent pair of paramedics came around, the ECG said I had a heart attack. I hadn't. Then we analysed the trace together, and diagnosed pericarditis."
He praised the professionalism of the paramedics who attended him, describing them as "brilliant" and noting that he was subsequently "blue lighted into hospital" for further assessment. Dr Hilary also commended hospital staff for their calm and efficient handling of his case despite being "inundated with patients."
Recovery and Professional Changes
Dr Hilary confirmed that he is now recovering well from the health scare, with Lorraine Kelly expressing her relief and concern for her colleague. The incident comes at a time of transition for the doctor, whose regular role on the ITV daytime programme has been altered due to broader network cuts.
Last year, Dr Hilary clarified his changing position, stating, "I’m still working there until December 31, and then I’m a free agent. It’s liberating from the constraints of a news programme presenter. I’ll probably come back as a guest presenter now and then." He acknowledged the sensitivity surrounding staff movements at ITV, adding that many colleagues are being redeployed as the broadcaster implements necessary changes.
When questioned about potential farewell celebrations, Dr Hilary responded with characteristic humour, remarking, "It would be lovely if they did, but we will wait and see on that one because money is tight. Certainly, there are groups of us who feel we’re part of a family, so we will all be going out anyway, whether they pay or not. We are quite happy to dip into our own pockets."
