Browse Medications by Medical Condition: Orthostatic Hypotension
Written by Amar Lunagaria
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Reviewed by James Wong
Pharm.D • NiHowdy Founder
Updated Jan 27, 2025
•Published Jan 15, 2025
Fact checkedWhat is Orthostatic Hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension is a condition characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person transitions from a sitting or lying position to standing. This drop can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting. It is more common in older adults but can affect people of any age. The condition is significant because it can increase the risk of falls, fractures, and other injuries, and may indicate underlying health issues, such as dehydration, heart problems, or neurological disorders.
History of Orthostatic Hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension has been recognized for centuries, with early medical descriptions focusing on fainting and dizziness after standing. The condition became more widely studied in the 20th century, especially with advancements in cardiovascular medicine. In the 1940s, it was formally identified as a condition distinct from other forms of low blood pressure, and research into its causes and treatment options expanded over the following decades.
What causes Orthostatic Hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension occurs when the body fails to compensate for the drop in blood pressure that occurs upon standing. This is usually due to the inability of the autonomic nervous system to regulate blood flow effectively. Causes include:
- Dehydration: Lack of fluids reduces blood volume, leading to low blood pressure.
- Medications: Diuretics, alpha blockers, and other blood pressure medications can cause or worsen the condition.
- Heart problems: Conditions like bradycardia, heart attack, or heart valve issues can impair blood circulation.
- Endocrine issues: Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by adrenal insufficiency or thyroid disorders, can contribute.
- Neurological disorders: Conditions like Parkinson's disease or diabetic neuropathy can affect the autonomic nervous system.
Risk factors for Orthostatic Hypotension
Risk factors include older age, prolonged bed rest, dehydration, certain medications (like diuretics or blood pressure-lowering drugs), and underlying health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or neurological disorders.
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How to prevent Orthostatic Hypotension
To prevent orthostatic hypotension, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid standing up too quickly, and wear compression stockings to help blood circulation. Managing underlying conditions, like controlling blood sugar in diabetes or adjusting medications that may contribute to low blood pressure, is also vital. Regular exercise can improve overall circulation and prevent the condition.
Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension
Common symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, fainting, and weakness when standing up. These symptoms are typically brief but can be dangerous, especially in older adults or those at risk of falls.
When to see a doctor about Orthostatic Hypotension
How is Orthostatic Hypotension diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves measuring blood pressure while lying down, sitting, and standing to assess the blood pressure drop. Healthcare providers may also conduct blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECG), and other diagnostic tests to check for underlying conditions such as dehydration, heart problems, or nervous system disorders.
Treatment options for Orthostatic Hypotension
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of orthostatic hypotension. It may involve lifestyle changes such as increasing fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, and avoiding rapid changes in position. Medications like fludrocortisone or midodrine may be prescribed to raise blood pressure. In cases of medication-induced orthostatic hypotension, adjusting the medication may be necessary.
List of drugs for Orthostatic Hypotension
| Drug Name | More Information | NiHowdy Prices & Bitcoin Rebate |
|---|
| Droxidopa | Droxidopa Information | Droxidopa Pricing |
| Midodrine HCl | Midodrine HCl Information | Midodrine HCl Pricing |
| Northera | Northera Information | Northera Pricing |
Medications used to treat Orthostatic Hypotension?
- Fludrocortisone: Increases blood volume to help raise blood pressure.
Lifestyle adjustments for managing Orthostatic Hypotension
Lifestyle changes include rising slowly from a seated or lying position, staying hydrated, eating small, frequent meals, and avoiding alcohol, which can lower blood pressure. Engaging in regular physical activity can improve circulation and reduce symptoms.
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Indirect and direct costs associated with Orthostatic Hypotension?
Direct costs include medical treatments, doctor visits, and prescription medications. Indirect costs arise from lost productivity due to dizziness or fainting episodes, as well as the potential need for caregiving or home modifications to prevent falls.
Living with Orthostatic Hypotension?
Living with orthostatic hypotension requires careful management of daily activities to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure. This includes taking precautions when standing, avoiding dehydration, and following a treatment plan provided by healthcare professionals. Patients may also need to adjust their routines to accommodate symptoms.
Support resources for patients with Orthostatic Hypotension
Resources include support groups for individuals with similar conditions, such as those with Parkinson's disease or diabetes, as well as educational materials from organizations like the American Heart Association (AHA). Rehabilitation centers or physical therapists may also help patients improve mobility and circulation.
The future of research for Orthostatic Hypotension
Ongoing research aims to better understand the causes of orthostatic hypotension and improve treatments. Studies are exploring new medications and interventions, as well as strategies for managing related conditions like neurogenic orthostatic hypotension more effectively.
Innovations in care for Orthostatic Hypotension
Innovations include wearable devices that monitor blood pressure in real-time, which could help in managing the condition more proactively. Advances in neuromodulation and therapies targeting the autonomic nervous system are also being explored for their potential to treat orthostatic hypotension.
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