User:Mr. Ibrahem/Orthostatic hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension, also known as postural hypotension, is a sudden decrease in blood pressure when standing up. Symptoms may include rapid onset of lightheadedness, blurry vision, confusion, and syncope with standing. It is associated with an increased risk of falls, heart disease, and death.

Causes include decreased blood volume; medications such as beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, and alpha blockers; prolonged bed rest; autonomic neuropathy; Addison disease; and multiple system atrophy. The underlying mechanism often involves insufficient compensation to pooling of blood in the legs with standing. It is defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure of at least 10 mmHg with standing. It is classified into neurogenic and non-neurogenic causes.

Treatment involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve decreasing certain medications, physiotherapy, wearing compression stockings, increase salt and water intake, or medications such as midodrine. Orthostatic hypotension is common, particularly among older people. Over half of older people in care homes are affected. It is the cause of many falls in older people.