What should you know about compression garments for orthostatic hypotension?

Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure after standing that can cause light-headedness, blurred vision, weakness, or fainting. Firm clothing around the abdomen, waist, or legs can limit the amount of blood collecting below the heart when you are upright. The useful garment and pressure depend on your symptoms, circulation, skin condition, mobility, and other illnesses. A garment that rolls, pinches, causes numbness, or changes skin colour is not a good fit. Compression does not correct every cause of postural symptoms.

Ask a clinician or trained fitter which style and size are suitable before buying one. Put it on as advised, often before prolonged standing, and remove it to inspect the skin. Rise gradually, flex your ankles, avoid standing still for long periods, and keep a record of triggers and near-faints. Do not force a tight garment over painful swelling or broken skin. If you have known arterial circulation problems, reduced sensation, or significant leg disease, get specific advice before using compression.

Arrange a GP review when dizziness is new, recurrent, worsening, or affecting walking, work, or driving. Seek urgent help after a faint with injury, chest pain, breathing difficulty, a racing or irregular heartbeat, severe headache, new weakness, confusion, or trouble speaking. Do not stand up alone if you feel you may faint; sit or lie down and call for help.

Could a medicine, dehydration, anaemia, or heart rhythm problem be contributing? Which garment and fit are appropriate? How long should I wear it, and what skin or circulation changes should make me stop?