Definition of Orthostatic hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension: A temporary lowering of
blood pressure (hypotension) due usually to suddenly standing
up (orthostatic). Orthostatic hypotension may be experienced by healthy
people -- it is more common in older people -- who rise quickly from
a chair, especially after a meal, and have a few seconds of
disorientation.
The change in position causes a temporary reduction in blood flow
and therefore a shortage of oxygen to the brain. This leads to
lightheadedness and, sometimes, a "black out" episode, a loss of
consciousness.
Symptoms include dizziness, feeling about to black out, and tunnel
vision (all due to insufficient bloodflow to the brain). The symptoms
are typically worse when standing and improve with lying down.
Tilt-table testing can be used to confirm orthostatic hypotension.
Tilt-table testing involves placing the patient on a table with a
foot-support. The table is tilted upward and blood pressure and pulse
is measured while symptoms are recorded in various positions.
No treatment is needed for orthostatic hypotension. If someone
with orthostatic hypotension faints, they will regain consciousness
by simply sitting or lying down.
The person is thereafter advised to exercise caution and slow the
process of changing positions from lying to sitting to standing. This
simple technique can allow the body to adjust to the new position and
permit the nerves to circulation of the legs to adjust slower in
older person.
Orthostatic hypotension is also called postural
hypotension.
Last Editorial Review: 10/6/2000Common Misspellings: orthostasis hypotension
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