Orthostatic Hypotension: Treatment, Procedure, Cost and Side Effects

Orthostatic Hypotension is also known as postural hypotension.

Also known as postural hypotension, Orthostatic hypotension refers to the condition of a person who experiences sudden pressure fall whenever he gets up. For instance, a person when stands up quickly on sitting for a long time, the blood pressure of the person tends to drop to a subsequent level below the normal. Thus the person suffering from this disease frequently feels dizzy and faints very often. Other probable symptoms include fatigue, chest pain, blurred vision, weakness, an occurrence of confusion or disorientation, frequent falling or senselessness and nausea. Research speaks that the person experiences a fall of 20 to 10 mm of his/her normal blood pressure level drastically within 5 minutes.

There are several causes of Orthostatic hypotension. It is very common for people who are ageing, older people are much exposed to this condition. Other major causes are dehydration, Parkinson’s disease, hypovolemia, weak heart conditions, anaemia, more heat in the temperature, immobility and even if the person is suffering from disease related to the endocrine system. Added to that, a poorly controlled diabetic patient is much more vulnerable towards orthostatic hypotension.

Fainting or frequent senselessness is an abnormal action. In case you are facing any such symptoms, you should never wait for it to get naturally fixed or avoid it. Immediately consult a doctor. The doctor would primarily ask you for a detailed information regarding the symptoms you are facing. He is sure to analyse your medical history and family medical history too. Further, a look into your blood pressure level is also performed by him. Normally, he will measure the blood pressure both sitting and standing and finally compare the result. A blood test is often recommended by the doctor. This blood test would analyse and produce the overall health condition with special attention to blood sugar level and level of red blood cells (that causes anaemia), as these are the major reasons of orthostatic hypotension.

On being diagnosed that you are suffering from orthostatic hypotension, the prime aim is to raise the blood pressure level. If the symptoms are mild, the best treatment for you is rest. Immediately lie down. After few minutes, you will get back to normal condition.

However, if symptoms are severe and frequent, the doctor would suggest you a change or shift in the lifestyle habits. Some of these include less intake of alcohol, more drinking water, avoid sitting in crossed leg posture, to stand up slowly and carefully when you are sitting for a long time. The doctor would suggest a diet with low carbohydrate if your blood pressure level drops even after eating. Again, more amount of salt in the diet also helps in elevating the blood pressure up to the normal level.

Other treatment includes compressed stocking that reduces the symptoms while the medication is always a patent option to treat orthostatic hypotension.

A person who is suffering from low blood pressure level should adopt the treatment. Added to that, people who tend to inhibit any of the cause of orthostatic hypotension should also opt for treatment.

If you aren’t facing any problem related to low blood pressure or rather not harassed by symptoms of orthostatic hypotension, you are not eligible for the treatment.

The recovery from orthostatic hypotension is attained only if you adhere to some fixed rules in your daily life. These are called post-treatment guidelines. It is the doctor itself who would advise you the suggestions that help in reducing symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. Drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated. Do not eat a lot at once. It is better to have small meals several times a day. Avoid intake of alcohol or intoxicating drugs.

Last by not the least, keep a track on the blood pressure level and a regular update with the doctor.

If the condition is mild, simple rest will help the person regain back to his normal strength. However, in case of severe condition, treatment is required. The recovery period is determined by the severity of the condition.

The treatment cost varies a lot. It is solely dependent on the condition and the cause of orthostatic hypotension. Based on the factors, doctors tend to suggest treatment and prescribe medicines.

Results are permanent, considered that the patient adheres to the suggestion by the doctor. Though complete recovery depends on the cause.