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Postural Hypotension
Medical Questions » Postural Hypotension
| Name: Postural Hypotension |
| Also known as: Positional Hypotension |
| Low blood pressure and lack of blood to the brain caused by a change in position. |
Causes of Postural Hypotension
A brief drop in blood pressure caused by the altered relative positions of the brain and the heart when the patient moves from lying to sitting or standing. The heart must pump harder, and the arteries must contract more to maintain blood flow by means of the blood pressure to a brain that is 30 cm above the heart, rather than one that is at the same level as the heart. It takes a few seconds for this adjustment to be made, particularly in patients who have hardening of the arteries (arteriosclerosis). Sometimes, medications to lower blood pressure and remove fluid may aggravate the condition. |
Symptoms of Postural Hypotension
Light-headedness and dizziness, and sometimes blackouts or faints, when rising quickly from lying or sitting to a standing position. |
Tests for Postural Hypotension
Diagnosed by measuring the blood pressure when the patient is lying, and again immediately after standing. |
Treatment for Postural Hypotension
Advise elderly patients to be slow in changing position. Review medications that may be responsible.
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Complications of Postural Hypotension of its treatment
Fainting and falling may cause serious injuries. |
Likely Outcome of Postural Hypotension
Depends on cause, but may be difficult to control. |
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