What should you know about elderly orthostatic hypotension?

Orthostatic hypotension, also called postural hypotension, occurs when blood pressure falls after moving from lying or sitting to standing. The body normally tightens blood vessels and adjusts the heart rate to keep blood flowing to the brain. If that response is slow or reduced, a person may feel light-headed, unsteady, weak, blurred in vision, or close to fainting. Dehydration, illness, prolonged bed rest, and some blood-pressure or other medicines can contribute.

Pause at the edge of the bed before standing, then rise with a stable support nearby. Keep pathways and bathroom areas clear, use prescribed walking aids, and sit or lie down immediately if dizziness begins. Maintain fluids if a clinician has not restricted them, and avoid sudden exertion after getting up. Do not add salt, change medicine doses, or use compression garments without individual advice, particularly with heart, kidney, or blood-pressure conditions. A symptom diary can record position, timing, meals, heat, and medicines.

Get emergency help after fainting with chest pain, severe breathlessness, a new neurological problem, a serious injury, or persistent confusion. Arrange prompt medical assessment for repeated near-fainting, falls, palpitations, or dizziness that is new or worsening. A clinician can review medicines, check blood pressure in different positions, and look for contributors rather than assuming every episode has the same cause.

Ask whether any medicine or health condition may be lowering blood pressure, how to measure symptoms safely at home, and what fluid or activity advice fits your medical history. Ask whether a GP Consultation is appropriate for a medication review and blood-pressure assessment.