Postural Hypotension
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What is Orthostatic Hypotension?Is there any treatment?What is the prognosis?What research is being done?OrganizationsWhat is Orthostatic Hypotension?
Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden fall in blood pressure that occurs when a person assumes a standing position. It may be
caused by hypovolemia (a decreased amount of blood in the body), resulting from the excessive use of diuretics, vasodilators,
or other types of drugs, dehydration, or prolonged bed rest. The disorder may be associated with Addison's disease, atherosclerosis
(build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries), diabetes, and certain neurological disorders including Shy-Drager syndrome and
other dysautonomias. Symptoms, which generally occur after sudden standing, include dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision,
and syncope (temporary loss of consciousness).
Is there any treatment?
When orthostatic hypotension is caused by hypovolemia due to medications, the disorder may be reversed by adjusting the dosage
or by discontinuing the medication. When the condition is caused by prolonged bed rest, improvement may occur by sitting up
with increasing frequency each day. In some cases, physical counterpressure such as elastic hose or whole-body inflatable
suits may be required. Dehydration is treated with salt and fluids.
What is the prognosis?
The prognosis for individuals with orthostatic hypotension depends on the underlying cause of the condition.
What research is being done?
The NINDS supports research on conditions such as neurogenic orthostatic hypotension aimed at increasing scientific understanding
of the condition and finding ways to treat and prevent it.
Select this link
to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.
Organizations
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury,
CT
06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100
Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291
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National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHBLI)
National Institutes of Health, DHHS
31 Center Drive, Rm. 4A21 MSC 2480
Bethesda,
MD
20892-2480
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov
Tel: 301-592-8573/240-629-3255 (TTY)
Recorded Info: 800-575-WELL (-9355)
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Prepared by:
Office of Communications and Public Liaison
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892
NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by
or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice
on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined
that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.
All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.
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Last updated February 14, 2007
