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Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic Hypotension: Causes and Treatment

Orthostatic hypotension is a fairly common condition, though it might indicate a more serious disorder. At CardioVascular Health Clinic, we are proud to provide comprehensive treatment for a broad scope of heart care concerns, helping diverse patients manage and overcome complex medical disorders.

What Is Orthostatic Hypotension?

Orthostatic hypotension (or postural hypotension) is a type of low blood pressure that occurs when rising after being in a seated or prone position. This condition can lead to disorientation or dizziness and sometimes loss of consciousness.

It also varies in medical significance. It’s fairly common for the episodes to occur rarely and last only a few seconds or minutes. However, prolonged orthostatic hypotension may indicate underlying health issues. It's crucial to see a medical professional if you regularly feel dizzy when standing suddenly.

Sporadic cases typically have a clear cause, such as extreme heat or dehydration, and require only fluids and rest to overcome. However, recurring orthostatic hypotension generally indicates an underlying medical issue. The appropriate treatment will depend upon the causal factor. 

What Are the Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension?

The primary indication of this condition is feeling lightheaded or faint upon standing up after being seated. Symptoms might last between a few seconds to a minute or two. Additional symptoms include

  • Blurred vision
  • Feeling weak
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Disorientation
  • Lack of focus
  • Headache
  • Heart racing
  • Nausea

Infrequent lightheadedness might be caused by a lack of fluids, excessive heat, or low blood sugar. Medical attention is probably not required if the symptoms rarely occur and have an identifiable cause.

However, if you cannot account for feeling dizzy -- or if the spells are unpredictable -- there might be a significant health issue affecting you. If loss of consciousness after sitting for an extended period is fairly regular, seek medical assistance immediately.

What Causes Orthostatic Hypotension?

Blood flow from the heart to the organs and extremities is easier when lying down or seated. However, in a standing position, blood flow from the lower portion of the body requires more effort. Numerous issues might contribute to orthostatic hypotension, including the following

  • Dehydration
  • Anemia
  • Diabetes
  • Thyroid disease
  • Heart valve disease
  • Certain medications
  • Pregnancy

Orthostatic hypotension can put you at risk of experiencing injuries from fainting or losing balance. If your blood pressure fluctuates significantly, you might also be at higher risk of stroke.

Orthostatic Hypotension Treatment

Treatment for orthostatic hypotension will depend upon the underlying cause; if a medical condition is triggering low blood pressure, it must be addressed.

Certain lifestyle modifications can help manage this condition, including

  • Staying hydrated. Dehydration can exacerbate orthostatic hypotension. Try to always have a water bottle nearby.
  • Increasing salt intake. Everyone has different sodium needs. For some, an increase in salt intake can help with symptoms.
  • Maintaining blood sugar levels. Eating several small meals throughout the day can help keep your blood sugar from dropping significantly.
  • Getting regular exercise. Physical fitness is a highly effective management tool for orthostatic hypotension and can mitigate symptoms. However, do not exercise in extreme heat.
  • Standing up slowly. If you feel faint when standing suddenly after lying down, take a moment, breathe deeply, and rise slowly.

If you are concerned about your heart health, please contact our dedicated team of representatives to schedule a thorough evaluation today.

Patient Resources

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Testimonials

I’m about one month out and things are so much better. At my two week evaluation my symptom score had gone from a 27 to a 7, and I’m sure it’s even better now. That speaks volumes. Now that I’m post recovery, there is no incontinence, I go to the bathroom much less and there are no ED side effects like there are with other procedures. In regard to my quality of life, well, I don’t maintain my life based on my proximity to a bathroom anymore.

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Blaine P., M.D.
Professional staff working in a beautiful facility with great doctors who sincerely care about their patients. Without Dr. Schmidt's skill, I would have needed heart bypass surgery instead of a stent. Follow-up has been thorough. I can't recommend them highly enough.
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LeAnn H.

Dr. Jim Melton and all the staff are fantastic. He is an excellent surgeon and his team is GREAT!!!! I just had surgery at the surgery center, I have only great things to say about my experience. Without him I really don't think I would be here to write this. If you’re looking for a good cardiovascular team, they are a 5 star for sure.

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Susie H.

Dr. Parsons and staff are amazing. He truly listened to me from the consult. Staff showed genuine care for my progress post procedure. I had my follow up appointment today so satisfied with results. Blake made me comfortable from the start. He is an activist for uterine fibroids treatment beyond the standard.

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Tamara M.

Professional and caring staff. Dr. Smith is very knowledgeable and shows genuine concern for your personal health. I enjoyed the background music in the procedure room, it really adds to the relaxing atmosphere.

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David L.

Dr. John Schrader is the most personable doctor we know. He stays on top of my dads health care and is genuinely concerned about his health. We never leave his office with questions. He answers them all. Even questions we don’t think of. Always professional but never cold or bad bedside manner. In our opinion he is THE BEST around.
Thank you Dr Schrader.

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Kathy J.

I came to Dr. Warren by a self referral for mals when it took me 8yrs 50+ doctors and thousands of dollars spent on no answers. My first visit I was scared I was just going to be gaslighted just like the past however I was pleasantly shocked when Dr. Warren immediately believed me. She took the time to review many disk I had brought from past tests. She never once dismissed me and listened to ever word I had to say. She scheduled one last test to confirm the diagnosis then I was scheduled for surgery right away. Surgery was a success and I can’t thank her and her staff enough. Dr. Warren truly saved my life.

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Angie W.

Dr. Garner literally saved my life 18 months ago and I've followed him to his new practice with Cardiovascular Health. He explains things so clearly, listens and is just a very nice person. His staff is great, too! I highly recommend!

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D Watts

Some of the nicest staff that I have ever dealt with!! They have been so incredibly awesome to my mom!! Would definitely recommend them to anyone!! Thank you so much for being so great with her!!

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Christy G.

The staff, the nurses, and Dr. Parsons were all amazing. Everything was simple and went well – very Bravo Zulu (military phrase meaning "well done"). In addition to the great staff at CardioVascular Health Clinic, the facilities were clean and well maintained. I have no complaints about anything. The whole experience was A1. I would recommend Dr. Parsons to anyone. He made a huge impact on my life.

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John W.

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