Postural Hypotension (Orthostatic Hypotension)
Description
A form of low blood pressure that happens when one stands up from sitting or lying down. Patients feel dizzy or lightheaded, and can faint with standing. It is more common in older adults and 15 % of those 65 and older have orthostatic hypotension. The disorder can be secondary to medications, heart disease, dehydration, bleeding, and neurologic disorders. Also called orthostatic hypotension.
Symptoms
Light headedness with standing, fainting, symptoms that resolve with laying down, sweating with standing.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to determine the cause of the disorder are done including: blood tests, tilt table test, and imaging studies.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- Troponin
- UA
- X-Ray
- EKG
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
Lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of fluids and standing slowly. Medications include: fludrocortisone, midodrine, pyridostigmine, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn), pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), caffeine and epoetin.
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