Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension is a type of low blood pressure. It is also called postural hypotension because it occurs when you stand up or are in a "standing posture." The terms orthostatic hypotension and postural hypotension are used interchangeably throughout this article.

When you have orthostatic hypotension, you're likely to feel dizzy, faint or lightheaded. It happens because your blood pressure drops suddenly when you rise from a seated or reclining position to standing on your feet. It can also occur from stretching. As the saying goes, "blood rushes from your head" and your brain suddenly experiences an insufficient oxygen supply. It can happen to anyone regardless of their state of health.

Besides dizziness, orthostatic hypotension can cause headaches, blurry vision and a sensation of numbness or tingling in your extremities. In most cases, these symptoms subside quickly as your heart catches up and supplies more blood to your brain.

Diseases, disorders and conditions associated with orthostatic hypotension 

As mentioned above, postural hypotension is usually temporary. But individuals with certain health conditions seem to be especially at risk.

One such condition is hypovolemia, which basically means a low blood supply. This usually results from bleeding due to trauma, overuse of diuretics (commonly known as "water pills") and certain other types of drugs. People with anemia are also at risk. Prolonged bed rest may be a factor too.

Other disorders include the following.

Dehydration, which is a common cause of low blood pressure and makes individuals more prone to episodes of postural hypotension. Drinking to much alcohol also puts you at risk because it tends to make you dehydrated.

Addison's disease, which is an endocrine disorder. Individuals with endocrine disorders are at higher risk for low blood pressure.

Atherosclerosis, which occurs when fatty deposits build up on the inside of the arteries, reducing efficient blood flow.

Diabetes, which is characterized by the presence of too much glucose in the blood. Diabetes is at the root of dozens of physical disorders.

Certain neurological disorders, including Parkinson's Disease can cause low blood pressure.

Orthostatic hypotension is a known side effect of a number of medications. These include certain antidepressants and alpha blockers.

People who are confined to wheelchairs often experience orthostatic hypotension because of an inability to sustain normal blood pressure and circulation to the upper part of the body.

Women who are pregnant are prone to low blood pressure and postural hypotension. Blood pressure usually returns to normal after delivery.

Postural hypotension also becomes a more common occurrence as we grow older.

How to avoid orthostatic hypotension

In order to avoid the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension, do the following.

Rise from sitting or reclining positions slowly. This gives your circulatory system time to catch up.

Breathe deeply and flex your abdominal muscles when you stand up. This helps maintain oxygen levels in your brain.

If you have low blood pressure, be careful getting out of bed. Sit on the edge of the mattress momentarily and then rise slowly and carefully.

Check your salt intake. It's widely known that people with high blood pressure usually eat too much salt. But many people don't realize that you can get low blood pressure if you don't eat enough salt.

Drink plenty of water, especially if you exercise regularly. Dehydration is dangerous.

Eating lowers blood pressure. Doctors recommend that you eat smaller meals, but more of them. Be especially careful when you stand up after a meal.

If you suspect certain medications are causing frequent incidents of orthostatic hypotension, talk to your doctor about alternatives or adjusting dosages.