Former President K.R. Narayanan’s condition is ‘‘very critical’’ after he slipped into coma at the Army’s Research and Referral Hospital here today.Hospital authorities said the 85-year-old Narayanan has acute artery blockages and his condition is not stable as he has slipped into coma.Narayanan, who has a history of heart and kidney problems, was admitted to hospital on October 29 after he complained of acute breathlessness. ‘‘He came with breathlessness, kidney failure and his urine output was very low. Medical evaluation has shown that the condition is right side pneumonitis (pneumonia),’’ said Brig Pradeep Bhargava, who heads the hospital.The former president has undergone dialysis and is on a ventillator since. Authorities said the infection in his lungs had spread to other parts of the body. Doctors are also treating him for septicaemia. ‘‘His is an old case of pulmonary artery disease and he has also undergone a bypass earlier. He has also had kidney problems,’’ said Bhargava. While the vital parameters — pulse rate, temperature and blood pressure — are being maintained, Narayanan’s condition continues to be critical. ‘‘He is being sedated and is on ventilator,’’ Bhargava said.His daughters and wife are with Narayanan. Earlier in the day, President Abdul Kalam visited his predecessor.
