What is the blood pressure during heart attack
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Blood Pressure During a Heart Attack
Blood Pressure Dynamics in Heart Attack Patients
During a heart attack, also known as myocardial infarction, blood pressure (BP) undergoes significant changes. Research indicates that blood pressure typically falls to some extent in every case of coronary occlusion, although the degree of this fall can vary. A rapid fall in blood pressure is more common than a gradual one, and in some cases, the fall does not occur until after a week.
Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure Trends
The systolic blood pressure (SBP) rarely falls below 90 mmHg in hypertensive patients during a heart attack, but this is common in non-hypertensive patients. When the pressure falls below 80 mmHg, it is usually a critical indicator, often leading to death. This highlights the importance of monitoring both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) during such events.
Blood Pressure Variability and Cardiovascular Outcomes
Blood pressure is a critical factor in cardiovascular events, including heart attacks. The relationship between BP and cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well-documented, with higher BP levels being associated with increased risk of CVD events . During a heart attack, the variability in BP can influence the outcome significantly. For instance, a transitory rise in BP at the onset of a heart attack is infrequent, but when it occurs, it can complicate the clinical picture.
Post-Heart Attack Blood Pressure Management
Post-heart attack, blood pressure management is crucial. In some cases, the initial fall in BP is followed by a temporary or permanent rise. Two-thirds of hypertensive patients regain a hypertensive level, with half of these patients reaching this level before discharge from the hospital. This underscores the need for continuous monitoring and management of BP in the recovery phase to prevent further complications.
Conclusion
In summary, blood pressure during a heart attack typically falls, with the extent and timing of this fall varying among patients. Systolic blood pressure rarely drops below 90 mmHg in hypertensive patients but can fall below 80 mmHg in non-hypertensive patients, often indicating a poor prognosis. Effective management of BP during and after a heart attack is essential to improve patient outcomes and prevent further cardiovascular events.
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