Orthostatic hypotension is a type of low blood pressure that happens when someone stands up quickly from a sitting or lying position. This can cause symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting.
Older adults and people with certain medical conditions like Parkinson’s disease or diabetes are more likely to experience orthostatic hypotension. Managing orthostatic hypotension requires a combination of lifestyle changes, medications, and other strategies.
Medical Management
There are several medications that doctors may prescribe to help manage orthostatic hypotension. These include:.
- Fludrocortisone, which can help increase the amount of fluid in your blood vessels
- Midodrine, which can help tighten blood vessels and raise blood pressure
- Pyridostigmine, which can improve nerve signals in the body
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can help increase blood pressure by reducing inflammation
These medications can be effective for some people, but they also sometimes have side effects and may not be appropriate for everyone.
It’s important to work closely with your doctor to find the right combination of treatments for your individual needs.
Lifestyle Changes
There are several lifestyle changes that can help manage orthostatic hypotension. These include:.
- Drinking plenty of fluids to maintain hydration
- Avoiding alcohol and caffeine, which can cause dehydration and lower blood pressure
- Slowly getting up from a sitting or lying position to give your body time to adjust
- Wearing compression stockings, which can help improve blood flow
- Eating small, frequent meals to help regulate blood sugar levels
- Increasing the amount of salt in your diet (with your doctor’s approval) to help retain fluids
Other Strategies
There are several other strategies that can help manage orthostatic hypotension. These include:.
- Tilting the head of your bed up slightly to elevate your head while you sleep
- Including exercises that help strengthen leg muscles in your regular routine
- Using a cane or walker to help steady yourself while walking
- Driving only when you feel well enough and can safely operate a vehicle
Conclusion
Managing orthostatic hypotension requires a comprehensive approach that includes medications, lifestyle changes, and other strategies.
By working closely with your doctor and making these changes, you can reduce the frequency and severity of orthostatic hypotension symptoms.