What is Orthostatic Hypotension?

Orthostatic hypotension, also called postural hypotension, is a form of low blood pressure that happens when you stand up from sitting or lying down. When you stand, gravity causes blood to pool in your legs. Normally, the nervous system tells your blood vessels to constrict and your heart to beat slightly faster to move that blood back up to your brain. In people with orthostatic hypotension, this process fails or is delayed, causing a sudden drop in blood pressure that leaves the brain briefly starved of oxygen.

How common is Orthostatic hypotension?

It is a very common condition, especially among older adults. It is estimated that up to 20% of people over the age of 65 experience this to some degree. It is also a frequent symptom for people with certain neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease, or those taking medications for high blood pressure or heart disease.

What are the symptoms of Orthostatic hypotension?

The symptoms usually occur within seconds or a few minutes of standing up and generally disappear quickly if the person sits back down. Signs include:

• Lightheadedness or Dizziness: The most common sensation.
• Blurred Vision: Seeing spots or experiencing a temporary graying out of vision.
• Fainting (Syncope): A temporary loss of consciousness because the brain didn't get enough blood.
• Weakness: A sudden feeling of rubbery legs.
• Confusion: Feeling briefly disoriented.
• Nausea: A feeling of sickness in the stomach.
• Coat-Hanger Pain: Pain in the neck and shoulders that occurs upon standing.

What causes Orthostatic hypotension?

Several things can cause the body to have trouble adjusting blood pressure when you stand up:

• Dehydration: When you do not have enough fluids, your blood volume drops and your heart has a harder time pumping blood upward.
• Medications: Some medicines, like diuretics, blood pressure pills, and certain antidepressants, can lower your blood pressure too much.
• Neurological Disorders: Conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Multiple System Atrophy (MSA), or diabetic neuropathy can damage the nerves that control blood pressure.
• Heart Problems: An unusually slow heart rate (bradycardia) or heart valve problems.
• Aging: The sensors in the neck that monitor blood pressure (baroreceptors) can become less sensitive over time.
• Post-Meal Changes: Some people experience a drop in pressure after eating a large meal as blood rushes to the digestive tract.

What are the complications of Orthostatic hypotension?

The most significant complication is the risk of falling. Fainting or severe dizziness can lead to fractures, head injuries, or other trauma. Chronic low blood pressure to the brain can also be a risk factor for cardiovascular issues like stroke if not properly managed.

How do doctors diagnose Orthostatic hypotension?

A diagnosis is often made through simple measurements in the office:

• Orthostatic Vital Signs: The doctor will measure your blood pressure and heart rate while you are lying down, then again after you have been standing for one minute and three minutes. A drop of 20 mmHg in the top number (systolic) or 10 mmHg in the bottom number (diastolic) confirms the diagnosis.
• Tilt Table Test: If the office test is unclear, you may be strapped to a table that slowly tilts you upright while your heart and blood pressure are monitored.
• Blood Tests: To check for anemia or blood sugar issues.
• EKG: To ensure the heart rhythm is normal.

How is Orthostatic hypotension treated?

Treatment focuses on increasing blood volume and helping the blood vessels react more effectively:

• Increased Fluid and Salt: Drinking more water and adding a bit more salt to the diet (only if approved by a doctor) helps hold more fluid in the blood.
• Medication Review: Adjusting or stopping medications that might be causing the drop.
• Compression Stockings: Elastic stockings that apply pressure to the legs to prevent blood from pooling.
• Abdominal Binders: An elastic wrap for the stomach that helps push blood back toward the heart.
• Prescription Medications: Drugs like midodrine or fludrocortisone can be used to help raise blood pressure in chronic cases.

What can I expect if I have Orthostatic hypotension?

For many, especially those where dehydration or medication is the cause, the condition is easily managed and may even go away. For those with underlying neurological conditions, it is a chronic symptom that requires daily management to prevent falls and maintain a high quality of life.

Can Orthostatic hypotension be prevented?

While you may not prevent the underlying cause, you can prevent the symptoms by:

• Hydrating: Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Avoiding Alcohol: Alcohol can worsen dehydration and relax blood vessels.
• Moving Slowly: Taking your time when moving from lying to sitting, and sitting to standing.
• Avoiding Hot Environments: Heat can cause blood vessels to dilate, making blood pressure drop more easily.

How do I take care of myself?

Learn to recognize the early signs of dizziness. If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie down immediately. Try crossing your legs while standing or tensing your leg muscles to help pump blood upward. It is also helpful to sleep with the head of your bed slightly elevated (about 10 to 20 degrees).

When should I see my doctor?

You should see a doctor if you experience dizziness every time you stand up. Seek immediate medical care if you:

• Lose consciousness (faint), even for a few seconds.
• Experience a fall that results in an injury.
• Have chest pain or a rapid, fluttering heartbeat when standing.
• Notice that your dizziness is getting significantly worse.

Why choose Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital for Orthostatic Hypotension Treatment in Lucknow, India?

Tender Palm Super-Speciality Hospital offers advanced Orthostatic Hypotension treatment in Lucknow, India, at an affordable cost. We have a team of experienced neurologists and cardiovascular specialists who provide accurate diagnosis and treatment options including autonomic function testing, medication management, and comprehensive lifestyle-based rehabilitation procedures. Our Neurology and Cardiovascular Care team has decades of experience in successfully treating Orthostatic Hypotension in Lucknow, India.

To seek an Expert Consultation for Orthostatic Hypotension Treatment in Lucknow, India:

Call us at +91-9076972161
Email at care@tenderpalm.com

Request a Call Back