Blood Pressure

Question 1

What is common in severe poisoning with central nervous system depressants, hypo or hypertension?

Answer 1

Hypo. A systolic blood pressure of less than 70mmHg may lead to irreversible brain damage or renal tubular necrosis.

Question 2

How should hypotension be corrected initially?

Answer 2

By raising the foot of the bed and administration of an infusion of either sodium chloride or a colloid.

Question 3

Fluid depletion without hypotension is common after what and why?

Answer 3

Prolonged coma.

Aspirin poisoning due to vomiting, sweating and hyperpnoea.

Question 4

Hypertension is less common than hypotension in poisoning, when does it occur?

Answer 4

With sympathomimetic drugs such as amfetamines, phencyclidine, and cocaine.