Orthostatic Hypotension (cont.)
What is the treatment for orthostatic hypotension?
The treatment for orthostatic hypotension depends upon the underlying
diagnosis. If the cause is dehydration, then fluid replacement will resolve the
symptoms. If it is due to medication, then an adjustment of the dose or change
in the type of medicine taken may be required.
Compression stockings may be considered to help prevent fluid from pooling in
the legs when a person is sitting or lying down. This allows for more blood flow
to be available to the brain when changes in position occur.
Medications may be of use, again depending upon the
underlying cause of the orthostatic hypotension. For those who are otherwise
healthy and have no specific illness that must be treated, increased salt and
fluid intake may be recommended. Caffeine and
nonsteroidal antiinflammatory
medications for example, ibuprofen may also be suggested.
Some patients may be a candidate for
fludrocortisone (Florinef) to increase
the volume of fluid in the blood vessels. This medication does have significant
side effects, including lowering magnesium and potassium levels in the blood,
headache, swelling, and weight gain.
What are the complications of orthostatic hypotension?
Falling is the most important complication of orthostatic hypotension. Most
often, the symptoms are transient and self- limiting, giving the patient a
chance to sit down, but when the drop in blood pressure causes syncope
(fainting) or near syncope, it is the trauma that is sustained in the fall that
causes the most damage.
Next: How can orthostatic hypotension be prevented? »
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