Can orthostatic hypotension be cured?

Orthostatic hypotension is a fall in blood pressure after moving from lying or sitting to standing. Blood briefly pools in the legs, and the body does not adjust quickly enough to maintain blood flow to the brain. This can cause light-headedness, blurred vision, weakness, nausea or fainting. Dehydration, illness, prolonged bed rest, nervous-system problems and medicines for blood pressure or other conditions can contribute.

A clinician may compare blood pressure and pulse in different positions, ask about episodes and review your medicines. The goal is to find a reversible contributor while keeping treatment for other conditions safe.

Rise in stages: sit first, move your ankles, then stand while holding a stable surface. Drink regularly unless a clinician has restricted your fluids, and avoid becoming overheated. Smaller meals may help some people who feel faint after eating. Compression garments or a medication change may be considered after assessment. Do not stop prescribed medicines or deliberately increase salt without medical advice. If symptoms begin, sit or lie down promptly to reduce the chance of a fall.

Book a GP Consultation if dizziness on standing is new, recurrent or affecting walking, work or driving. Arrange prompt care after a faint, a fall, chest discomfort, breathlessness, a racing or irregular heartbeat, black stools, heavy bleeding or persistent vomiting. Call emergency services for fainting with ongoing confusion, severe breathing difficulty, new weakness on one side, or a severe sudden headache.

Could any of my medicines or a recent illness be lowering my blood pressure? Should I monitor readings at home? Are fluids, salt or compression garments appropriate for me? What should I do if I feel faint, and when should I return for review?