Orthostatic hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension is a condition in which blood pressure drops when standing up from a lying or sitting position. This can temporarily reduce blood flow to the brain, leading to dizziness or a light-headed feeling.
Key points
- In orthostatic hypotension, blood pressure drops when standing up from a lying or sitting position.
- This can temporarily reduce blood flow to the brain, resulting in dizziness.
- Symptoms often subside when sitting or lying down again.
- Orthostatic hypotension can have various causes, such as dehydration, medication, or changes in the nervous system.
- Physical therapy does not treat blood pressure itself but can help manage the symptoms.
Symptoms
- Dizziness when standing up.
- A light-headed feeling.
- Blurred vision.
- Instability.
- Feeling like you might faint.
Causes
- Orthostatic hypotension can be caused by dehydration.
- Certain medications can contribute to blood pressure drop upon standing.
- Changes in the autonomic nervous system may play a role.
- Prolonged bed rest can cause orthostatic hypotension.
- Certain neurological conditions can affect blood pressure regulation.
Treatments
- Physical therapy does not treat blood pressure itself but can help manage instability symptoms.
- Advice on standing up slowly from a lying or sitting position can help.
- Adequate fluid intake and gradual activity build-up may be recommended.
- When there are clear signs of orthostatic hypotension, further assessment by a GP is important.
What is orthostatic hypotension?
When standing up, the body needs to adjust blood pressure quickly to maintain stable blood flow to the brain. The autonomic nervous system normally handles this adjustment.
In orthostatic hypotension, this adjustment is less effective, causing blood pressure to drop temporarily.
Blood pressure
Drop upon standing
Blood pressure does not adjust well to position changes.
Blood flow
Less blood to brain
Temporarily reduced blood flow can cause dizziness.
Recovery
Sitting or lying down
Symptoms often subside when sitting or lying down.
Would you like to have your symptoms assessed?
An initial assessment can help determine whether your symptoms fit orthostatic hypotension and which next steps may be appropriate.