Association of Hypotensive State in Myocardial Infarction with Subsequent Metabolic Reponses and Mortality in Elderly Subjects

Abstract

Ten elderly patients with typical findings of acute myocardial infarction were studied for two weeks on a metabolic ward. Blood pressures were determined hourly, and balances of nitrogen, water and electrolytes were computed daily. Surviving patients had higher blood pressures, lower heart rates, lost more weight, exhibited negative sodium balance and had earlier recovery from negative nitrogen and potassium balance. Early appearance of hypotension presaged clinical complications, unfavorable metabolic responses and a fatal outcome.