Orthostatic Hypotension & Dizziness

Do you ever quickly stand up and feel a wave of dizziness? Clutching onto the room around you to stand can cause a wave of fear. Faintness after standing is caused by your blood pressure quickly dropping when you stand up after sitting or lying down. This is a sign of the condition called Orthostatic Hypotension

What is Orthostatic Hypotension?

Orthostatic Hypotension is a form of low blood pressure. Orthostatic translates to upright posture, and hypotension is low blood pressure. This condition of low blood pressure is also referred to as postural hypotension.

Science Behind Orthostatic Hypotension

When we stand up quickly, blood in our venous system pools in areas below the heart, so the blood that returns to the heart is diminished; this causes the heart to be unable to pump blood into the head and the brain. Less blood flow in the brain causes the body to get dizzy immediately. Typically, the body realizes what is happening and pushes blood back into central circulation to send it back into the head within seconds.

Causes of Orthostatic Hypotension

Medial diseases and medications can trigger orthostatic hypotension. Certain medical conditions predispose you to orthostatic hypotension, including Parkinson’s, diabetes, atherosclerosis, Addison’s disease, anemia, heart problems, spinal cord conditions, Shy Drager syndrome, and amyloidosis. Substances that can contribute to orthostatic hypotension include alcohol, depression medication, beta and alpha-blockers, nitroglycerin, nitrates, Viagra, and Cialis.

Causes of Orthostatic Hypotension may also include ear issues, aging, fever, prolonged bed rest, dehydration, and significant blood loss.

Treatments for Orthostatic Hypotension include:

• Fluids
• Diabetes management
• Changes in medication
• Treatment of heart conditions
• Corticosteroids to increase blood volume or pressure
• Pyridostigmine for Orthostatic Hypotension

Schedule an Appointment

At New York Hearing Doctors, we developed a blueprint to address your balance concerns. For a consultation or for further information, contact us to schedule a consultation to address and assess your Orthostatic Hypotension and dizziness today.