Postural hypotension, also known as orthostatic hypotension, is characterized by a rapid decrease in blood pressure, resulting in certain symptoms, such as dizziness, fainting and weakness.
This occurs primarily when the person quickly goes from lying or sitting on their feet, but it can also be a consequence of the use of certain medications, prolonged bed rest or dehydration, it is important to find the cause and initiate appropriate treatment.
- Postural hypotension occurs mainly when the person gets up quickly.
- Does not have enough time for blood to flow properly.
- Builds up in the veins of the legs and chest.
- Causing symptoms.
- Other causes of orthostatic hypotension include:.
There is also postprandial hypotension, which is more common in older people and is characterized by a sudden and sudden drop in blood pressure a few hours after a meal, which can pose a risk to the person as it increases the risk of falls, heart failure.postprandial stroke.
Postural hypotension is characterized by a drop in pressure, whereby the systolic pressure is less than 20 mmHg and the diastolic pressure is less than 10 mmHg.For example, in the presence of signs and symptoms indicative of a pressure drop, it is important Go to the cardiologist or family doctor to make the diagnosis.
Diagnosis of this type of hypotension is made by controlling blood pressure in different positions, so that the doctor can evaluate the variation in blood pressure, in addition, the doctor evaluates the signs and symptoms of the person, as well as the medical history.It is recommended, as an electrocardiogram (ECG), glucose and electrolyte dosing, such as calcium, potassium and magnesium, for example, but the result of these tests is inconclusive for orthostatic hypotension.
The main signs and symptoms associated with orthostatic hypotension are fainting, vision loss, dizziness, palpitations, mental confusion, loss of balance, tremors, headaches and falls, it is important to consult your doctor in case of frequent hypotension.
Orthostatic hypotension increases with age, being more common in the elderly, and symptoms may appear a few seconds or minutes after getting up, for example.
Treatment is determined by the doctor based on the cause of orthostatic hypotension, so it is recommended to change the dose of a certain drug used, increase fluid intake and perform regular, light to moderate exercise. Also, it is important to lie down for a long time, it is recommended to sit or get up regularly.
In some cases, your doctor may also recommend the use of certain medications that promote sodium retention and symptom relief, such as fludrocortisone, for example, or nonsteroste anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that also promote better orthostatic hypotension.