The health of our beloved public figures often serves as a reminder of our vulnerabilities, especially as we age.

Recently, a renowned 80-year-old Australian media personality and former Senator for Victoria faced a health scare that landed him in a Melbourne hospital.

He has been battling a 'pretty serious' skin cancer and was admitted with a 'scary' heart issue known as atrial fibrillation.

Derryn Hinch's ordeal began when he noticed he was getting short of breath, a symptom that should never be ignored, particularly in seniors.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) confirmed the diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, and he was promptly treated with electroshock therapy to reset his heart rhythm.

Derryn Hinch, 80, was admitted to a Melbourne hospital for atrial fibrillation. Credit: Facebook

This procedure, while daunting, is a common treatment for this type of heart condition and can be life-saving.

The media veteran's health challenges didn't stop there.

He has also been undergoing five weeks of daily radiation treatment to combat a melanoma on his forehead, a type of skin cancer that is particularly prevalent in Australia due to high levels of sun exposure.

Despite two operations to remove the cancerous spot, doctors recommended radiation as an additional 'insurance' to ensure the cancer is entirely eradicated.

Hinch's health scares are a powerful reminder of the importance of regular check-ups and not dismissing unusual symptoms.

Atrial fibrillation, for instance, affects millions of people worldwide and is more common as we age.

It can lead to blood clots, stroke, and heart failure if not appropriately managed.

Symptoms can include heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weakness, and it's crucial to seek medical advice if these are experienced.

Skin cancer, on the other hand, is the most common form of cancer in Australia, with the country having one of the highest rates of melanoma in the world.

Regular skin checks, sun protection, and awareness of changes in moles or new skin spots are key to early detection and treatment.

Despite Hinch’s health battles, he remained upbeat and grateful for each day.

His story is a testament to the advances in medical treatment that allow individuals to continue living fulfilling lives even after serious health issues.

It also highlighted the importance of organ donation, as Hinch himself benefited from a liver transplant in 2011 after being diagnosed with aggressive cancer.

Key Takeaways

• Derryn Hinch, aged 80, was admitted to a Melbourne hospital for a heart issue, specifically atrial fibrillation.
• He underwent electroshock therapy, which successfully reset his heart rhythm, and was released from the hospital on the same day.
• The Australian media personality is also currently engaged in a 'pretty serious' battle with skin cancer, undergoing radiation treatment to address a melanoma on his forehead.
• Despite his health challenges, Derryn Hinch remains optimistic and focuses on his recovery, drawing on the gratitude for a second chance at life after a liver transplant operation where he briefly died on the operating table.

How do you manage health issues like atrial fibrillation or skin cancer as you age? How often do you get check-ups to catch health problems early? Let us know in the comments below.

 

[Parrot]

I see my Cardiologist every 6 Months ..

 

[BillyB]

Electro shock did not work for me , so now have a pacemaker controlling heart beats. I see cardiologist yearly for tune up.

 

[Ebby]

Electro shock did not work for me , so now have a pacemaker controlling heart beats. I see cardiologist yearly for tune up.

Always wear something to keep the sun away from your face .l don't like the heat
Poor Darryn l remember him well .l hope his health improves

 

[Veggiepatch]

I see my Cardiologist every 6 Months ..

I haven't seen a cardiologist for over 10 years.

Apparently, I don't have a heart, according to most people.

 

[Jennylolo]

I may have to have a pacemaker. I see cardiologist every 12 months and get tested. There have been no changes. Scans showed 0% plaque or calcium in arteries. But pump - well .....He says I don't have heart disease, simply an electrical anomaly. It's like look at your age and if you were to buy a house at that age, some part of it might just need some electrical work done on it. The pattern remains the same, but is not a normal one- it's my pattern. Interesting.

 

[BillyB]

I may have to have a pacemaker. I see cardiologist every 12 months and get tested. There have been no changes. Scans showed 0% plaque or calcium in arteries. But pump - well .....He says I don't have heart disease, simply an electrical anomaly. It's like look at your age and if you were to buy a house at that age, some part of it might just need some electrical work done on it. The pattern remains the same, but is not a normal one- it's my pattern. Interesting.

When I was checked my cardiologist said the plumbing was good but the electrics not so good. My heart rate would go as low as 20 beats a min. and up to 150 or more at times .

 

[Littleboy8]

I haven't seen a cardiologist for over 10 years.

Apparently, I don't have a heart, according to most people.

It’s abit hard for people to think you have a heart when most of your comments are really heartless

 

[Jennylolo]

When I was checked my cardiologist said the plumbing was good but the electrics not so good. My heart rate would go as low as 20 beats a min. and up to 150 or more at times .

took mine after cooking a meal and cleaning up and it was 97 systolic. Last 4 months been constantly around 97-112 with spinouts. no explanation. But if stays under 120/80 with my skip beat wave pattern, he said pacemaker. Guess if I have to its no real biggie then if it keeps it stable.

 

[BillyB]

took mine after cooking a meal and cleaning up and it was 97 systolic. Last 4 months been constantly around 97-112 with spinouts. no explanation. But if stays under 120/80 with my skip beat wave pattern, he said pacemaker. Guess if I have to its no real biggie then if it keeps it stable.

It is quick and easy op. you do not even have to be put to sleep, you can hear all the talk between nurses and surgeon.

 

[Jennylolo]

It is quick and easy op. you do not even have to be put to sleep, you can hear all the talk between nurses and surgeon.

That's comforting. It takes away a certain amount of fear as I get quite ill from anaesthetics. My Dad had one and a defibrillator but never talked about how it was done. And he passed before I knew my condition. Feel a lot happier if that has to be then. Thanks for letting me know.

 

[Towing]

I know of a lady who had a Melanoma. It went to her liver.

 

[Gunpark]

The "human headline" strikes again. Good to hear you are still going, Derryn.

 

[BillyB]

That's comforting. It takes away a certain amount of fear as I get quite ill from anaesthetics. My Dad had one and a defibrillator but never talked about how it was done. And he passed before I knew my condition. Feel a lot happier if that has to be then. Thanks for letting me know.

A local anaesthetic on the left side chest is all I had.

 

[Towing]

Some types of cancer treatment can also cause shortness of breath. I know of a few unfortunate incidents of that.

 

[marni]

So every aged person with heart problems are going through the same. On top of this also a new heart valve which came with hospital bacteria. Yea we are all going through the wars but don’t need to make headlines