Orthostatic hypotension, also known as postural hypotension, is a condition where a person's blood pressure drops significantly upon standing up from a sitting or lying position. It is defined as a decrease in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of at least 10 mmHg within three minutes of standing. This drop in blood pressure can cause symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, blurred vision, weakness, and confusion due to reduced blood flow to the brain. The condition happens because the usual physiological mechanisms that constrict blood vessels to maintain blood pressure when standing do not work properly, leading to blood pooling in the lower extremities and reduced cardiac output.
Orthostatic hypotension can be acute or chronic and can result from various causes such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, medication side effects, volume depletion, aging, or diseases affecting the cardiovascular or nervous systems. It is especially common in older adults. The condition increases the risk of falls, cardiovascular events, and can contribute to other health complications. Diagnosis is made by measuring blood pressure changes after moving from lying down to standing. Management includes addressing the underlying cause, lifestyle modifications such as increased fluid and salt intake, compression stockings, and sometimes medication.
In summary, orthostatic hypotension is characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure on standing, leading to symptoms related to inadequate brain perfusion, and requires evaluation and management depending on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms.
