Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a decrease in blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg systolic or 10 mmHg diastolic within three minutes of standing up. We will delve into the underlying mechanisms that contribute to this drop in blood pressure and how it affects the body.
%20Understanding%20Orthostatic%20Hypotension%20What%20is%20it.jpg "Understanding Orthostatic Hypotension What is it")
"Understanding Orthostatic Hypotension: What is it?"
%20Understanding%20Orthostatic%20Hypotension%20What%20is%20it.jpg "Understanding Orthostatic Hypotension What is it")
1) Orthostatic hypotension (OH) ?
Orthostatic hypotension is
a condition characterized by a sudden drop
in blood pressure
a condition characterized by a sudden drop
in blood pressure
when transitioning from a lying or
sitting position to a standing position.
sitting position to a standing position.
Normally,
when we stand up,
when we stand up,
the body quickly adjusts
to maintain stable blood pressure
by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate.
by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate.
However,
in individuals with orthostatic hypotension,
this regulatory mechanism
doesn't function properly,
resulting in a significant decrease in blood pressure.
this regulatory mechanism
doesn't function properly,
resulting in a significant decrease in blood pressure.
2) Several factors (OH)
Several factors contribute to the development of orthostatic hypotension.
⓵ inadequate blood volume
One common cause is inadequate blood volume,
which can occur
due to dehydration, blood loss,
or certain medical conditions that affect blood volume regulation.
which can occur
due to dehydration, blood loss,
or certain medical conditions that affect blood volume regulation.
⓶ impaired autonomic nervous system function
Another factor is impaired autonomic nervous system function,
which is responsible for controlling blood pressure
and other involuntary body functions.
which is responsible for controlling blood pressure
and other involuntary body functions.
Disorders such as Parkinson's disease,
multiple system atrophy, and
certain neuropathies can disrupt
the autonomic nervous system's ability
to maintain blood pressure stability.
multiple system atrophy, and
certain neuropathies can disrupt
the autonomic nervous system's ability
to maintain blood pressure stability.
3) Symptomes (OH)
When blood pressure drops rapidly upon standing,
it can lead to symptoms
such as dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, and even fainting.
it can lead to symptoms
such as dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, and even fainting.
These symptoms occur because the brain doesn't receive enough blood flow and oxygen in the upright position.
It's important to note that the severity of symptoms can vary among individuals, ranging from mild discomfort to significant impairment.
Understanding Orthostatic hypotension
Understanding the underlying mechanisms of orthostatic hypotension is crucial in managing the condition effectively.
By identifying the specific cause and addressing it, healthcare professionals can develop tailored treatment plans to help individuals maintain stable blood pressure and improve their quality of life.
<To read the next article >
<To read the previous article>
#OrthostaticHypotension #LowBloodPressure #BloodPressureDrop #PosturalHypotension #BloodPressure #CardiovascularHealth #Dizziness #Lightheadedness #Fainting #Hydration
%20Understanding%20Orthostatic%20Hypotension%20What%20is%20it.jpg)