Chennai, Aug 7 (IANS): Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK President M. Karunanidhi's health has deteriorated and his response to medical intervention over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis, Kauvery Hospital said on Monday.

"There has been a decline in the medical condition of Karunanidhi. Maintaining his vital organ functions continues to remain a challenge considering his age related ailments," a hospital statement said.

"He is on continuous monitoring and being treated with active medical support. His response to medical interventions over the next 24 hours will determine the prognosis," it said.

The 94-year-old Karunanidhi, who has been the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu five times, was admitted to Kauvery Hospital on July 28 after a dip in his blood pressure.

The hospital said Karunanidhi was resuscitated and stabilized in the ICU (intensive care unit) and managed by a team of doctors and nurses.

"There was a setback on his clinical condition on July 29 due to difficulty in breathing. He responded well to medical management and his vital signs are gradually normalized," the statement said.

For the first time since he was hospitalised on July 28, Karunanidhi's second wife Dayalu Ammal visited the hospital on Monday.

Members of Karunanidhi's family including M.K. Stalin, Kanimozhi and others were present in the hospital.

Tamil Nadu Congress Chief S. Thirunavukkarasar, after visiting the hospital earlier in the day, told reporters that there had been a minor setback in Karunanidhi's health.

Meanwhile, the police have diverted traffic near the Kauvery Hospital as large numbers of DMK cadres have started gathering outside.