On the first hints page we investigated the respiratory aspects of the case, noting an extreme arterial hypoxia, hypocapnia and hyperventilation.
We now turn to cardiovascular aspects of the case as suggested partly by the observed hypertension and slightly elevated pulse rate.
A] To set up output tables to ask for a partial cardiovascular profile
which will yield, left to right, Cardiac Output (CO), left atrial pressure, left heart strength, hematocrit and blood aldosterone concentration.
B] The results of this query yield the data pattern below.
C] We note in particular
• a quite suppressed and still falling cardiac output (4.6 vs. 5.5 L/M)
• despite a modestly elevated filling pressure (6.8 vs. 6.0 normal)
• a markedly depressed left heart contractility (0.75 times normal)
• an elevated hematocrit (51.8) and
• a strong renal driven hormonal attempt to reabsorb salt and build up blood volume (ALDO 17.2 vs. 7.8 baseline)
D] You might also try an exercise tolerance test (see bottom of main patient page for the protocol) given the "tires easily" and "not enough air" symptoms. This will reveal quite a bit more about this case (!).
