Orthostatic+Hypotension

=Orthostatic Hypotension=

Western Diagnosis Excess fall in BP on rising to the upright posture: usually > 20/10 mm Hg

Pathophysiology
1. pooling of blood in veins of legs 2. decreased venous return and CO 3. decreased blood pressure 4. baroreceptors, SNS & catecholamines, vasoconstrictors, ADH

Etiology
1. drugs (side-effects) 2. hypovolemia due to diuretics 3. hypovolemia due to disease: hemorrhage, V, D, excess sweating, Diabetes Mellitus, Addison’s/low adrenal function 4. neurological diseases that interrupt N sympathetic reflex arc on standing

Signs & Symptoms
1. faintness, lightheadedness, dizziness, confusion, visual blurring 2. syncope, seizures if severe cerebral hypoperfusion

Treatment:
tx underlying cause