ABSTRACT

Cardiovascular emergencies are common in elderly patients, which relates to the high prevalence of underlying cardiac disease in this age group. Not only are cardiovascular emergencies common, but associated morbidity and mortality are also high in these patients. A rapid and accurate diagnosis plus correct therapy are mandatory. The diagnosis, however, may be more challenging in older patients because of atypical presentations and the presence of concomitant diseases and aging changes that often mask the usual clinical findings. Emergency management will also be challenging in these elderly patients because of the presence and complexity of multiple disorders and aging changes that influence therapy.