Understanding the challenges of elderly collapse in emergency departments: metabolic and cardiovascular health: a complex relationship

Abstract

Collapse is a significant and common presenting complaint in the accident and emergency departments globally, with varying incidence and prevalence influenced by regional health profiles and healthcare systems. It is leading to almost twenty percent of all admission to an acute hospital amongst the elderly population. It encompasses a wide range of underlying causes, from benign to life-threatening conditions that need to be excluded by Acute Physicians. This case highlights the importance of maintaining metabolic equilibrium and intricated relationship to cardiovascular health. It highlights impetus for adequate vitamin D levels for overall mineral balance and bone-cardiovascular health. It summarises the regulatory mechanisms of vitamin D and its interactions with key electrolytes and hormones such as calcium, phosphate and magnesium as well as parathyroid hormone. It is important that these metabolic changes can be recognised so that the appropriate treatment and preventative measures are taken.