When is GP consultation recommended for postural hypotension?

Postural hypotension, also called orthostatic hypotension, is a drop in blood pressure when you move from lying or sitting to standing. It can make you feel unsteady, weak, confused or close to fainting. A GP can review when the episodes occur, check blood pressure in different positions, and look for contributing factors such as dehydration, illness or medicines.

Stand up slowly, pause at the edge of the bed, and hold a stable surface if you feel unsteady. Keep a record of triggers, symptoms, fluid intake and medicines, including any recent change. Do not stop prescribed treatment on your own. Bring the record and mention any fall, injury, vomiting, diarrhoea or reduced drinking.

Seek urgent medical help for fainting with chest pain, severe breathlessness, a new irregular heartbeat, prolonged confusion, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, a serious injury, or symptoms that do not settle after lying down. Repeated fainting also needs prompt assessment.

Ask whether your medicines, hydration, heart rhythm or another condition could be contributing. You can also ask how to measure blood pressure safely at home and what symptoms should prompt review.