Do I Have Orthostatic Hypotension?

Do you feel dizzy or light-headed when you get up after sitting or lying down?

Do you have dizziness that usually lasts less than a few minutes?

Do you have blurred vision?

Do you feel weak or fatigued?

Do you faint?

Do you feel confused or have difficulty concentrating?

Do you have nausea or a feeling of heat and sweating?

Do you have a headache?

Do you have palpitations or shortness of breath?

Based on your answers it is unlikely that you have orthostatic hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is a medical condition characterized by a sudden drop of blood pressure when you get up from a sitting or lying position. When you get up suddenly, gravity causes blood pooling in your legs with less blood circulating back to your heart, resulting in a temporary drop of blood pressure. Low blood pressure can cause dizziness or fainting. In most cases, episodes of orthostatic hypotension are usually mild, occur occasionally and last only a few minutes. Sometimes, orthostatic hypotension can be a chronic problem, which is the result of an underlying medical condition.

Based on your answers there is a possibility that you have orthostatic hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension refers to low blood pressure that occurs when you get up after sitting or lying down. It can affect anyone, but it is more common with age. Orthostatic hypotension is often caused by something obvious, such as dehydration (due to diarrhea or vomiting) or prolonged bed rest due to illness or pregnancy. Sometimes, it is the result of an inadequate dose or type of medication used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease or depression. It is also common in people with anemia. Diagnosing is based on blood pressure monitoring and additional tests.

Based on your answers there is a high possibility that you have orthostatic hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is a condition in which a person's blood pressure drops after getting up from a sitting or lying position. Usually, it is not a dangerous condition, but you can fall and injure yourself when you feel dizzy. However, fluctuations in blood pressure can worsen pre-existing heart disease. The goal of treatment is to restore normal blood pressure values. Treatment involves treating the cause of orthostatic hypotension. In mild cases, it will be enough to sit down when you feel dizzy. You should also drink enough fluids, avoid alcohol and wear compression stockings.