Delayed orthostatic hypotension: what to know

Standing makes blood collect temporarily in the legs. The body normally tightens blood vessels and adjusts the heart rate to keep blood reaching the brain. If that response is slow or insufficient, symptoms may appear after you have been upright for a period. You might feel light-headed, weak, unsteady, blurred in vision, or close to fainting. Dehydration, illness, prolonged bed rest, heat, and some medicines can contribute, but the cause needs individual assessment.

Sit or lie down straight away and raise your legs if comfortable. Rise in stages: sit first, move your ankles, then stand while holding a stable surface. Drink enough fluid for your usual health needs unless a clinician has restricted fluids, and avoid overheating or standing still for long periods. Review medicines only with a clinician; do not stop prescribed treatment on your own. Keep a note of the posture, timing, symptoms, and any pulse or blood-pressure readings.

Get urgent help after fainting with injury, chest pain, severe breathlessness, a new neurological symptom, a racing or irregular heartbeat, or prolonged confusion. Arrange a GP assessment for repeated episodes, falls, symptoms during exercise, or a new problem after starting or changing medicine. A clinician can compare readings while you are lying and standing and check for contributing conditions.

Ask: Could my symptoms be delayed orthostatic hypotension? Which medicines, illnesses, or fluid limits matter? How should I measure blood pressure at home? What activities should I modify? What should I do if I feel faint while alone?