Read on to learn more about the symptoms, causes and treatment for Orthostatic Hypotension…
Orthostatic Hypotension is a sudden fall in blood pressure that happens when a person stands up after a prolonged period of sitting down or lying down.
When a person is suffering from this disease, the blood tends to pool at the lower extremities when the person sits down or lies down. So when the individual stands up, the blood does not reach his upper extremities, as there is a significant amount of low blood pressure to these areas.
This condition is also medically called Postural Hypotension, Orthostatic Intolerance, Orthostatic Reflect, and colloquially called Head Rush or Dizzy Spell.
The causes of orthostatic hypotension are:
- Hypovolemia: This refers to a decrease in the amount of blood in the body. This can happen due to excessive bleeding, use of diuretics, drugs, dehydration and even bed rest. People suffering from anemia are also prone to a certain amount of low blood pressure.
- Different Diseases: Certain diseases make the individual prone to orthostatic hypotension. They are Diabetes, Addison’s Disease, a build-up of fatty deposits in arteries, and certain neurological disorders.
- Certain Medications: Certain Medications such as antidepressants and even drugs such as Marijuana can cause orthostatic hypotension.
- Use of Harnesses: Use of safety harnesses can cause hypotension because the leg loops can cause a restriction of blood flow from the legs to the heart.
- Other Reasons: There can also be other reasons for low blood pressure. People suffering from anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa can suffer from low blood pressure. Elderly, postpartum mothers may also suffer from hypotension.
The symptoms are:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Headache
- Blurred or Dimmed Vision
- Numbness or Tingling in the extremities
- Fainting
There are several medications available which are used to treat hypotension or low blood pressure. However, along with these medicines, a change in lifestyle also needs to be effected.
Patients are advised to check their blood pressure regularly. They are also advised to stand up slowly if they have been lying down or sitting down for a long time. Patients are also advised to eat salt and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. Individuals suffering from low blood pressure are also advised to take small, but regular meals at regular time intervals.
If proper care is taken, orthostatic hypotension is a curable disease.
