Abstract
In the older population, especially the hospitalized patients who are prone to dehydration and hypovolemia, orthostatic hypotension (OH) presents as a debilitating disease. How different pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions affect the incapacitating symptoms (falls and episodes of syncope), morbidity, and mortality related to OH has become a topic of debate. OH can predispose to ischemic heart disease (IHD). A non-pharmacological approach consisting of mobilization, early lifestyle changes, and therapeutic maneuvers is the first choice in the management of these patients. Individuals with persistent symptoms require pharmaceutical therapy to increase blood volume and peripheral vascular resistance. This article summarizes the management of OH that is vital to cope with the needs of the growing geriatric populations.
Highlights
BackgroundOrthostatic hypotension (OH) is characterized by a sustained decrease in blood pressure (BP) on standing
Especially the hospitalized patients who are prone to dehydration and hypovolemia, orthostatic hypotension (OH) presents as a debilitating disease
How different pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions affect the incapacitating symptoms, morbidity, and mortality related to OH has become a topic of debate
Summary
Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is characterized by a sustained decrease in blood pressure (BP) on standing. An upright posture leads to pooling of 500-1000 ml of blood in the lower extremities and splanchnic and pulmonary circulations [12] This leads to a drop in the systolic and diastolic pressures, with the reduction of venous return to the heart, decreased ventricular filling, and transient descent of the afterload. Through compression garments for abdominal and lower extremities, allows reduction of venous stasis and thereby orthostatic arterial hypotension, especially in the elderly patients At their maximum efficiency, these external compression garments are able to handle pressures ranging between 15 and 40 mmHg [17]. To treat and prevent OH in hospitalized older patients, early mobilization and avoidance of physical deconditioning are recommended [18] In these patients, simple positional changes play a vital role in improving OH without medications. Pharmacological therapy focuses on either increasing blood volume or raising peripheral vascular resistance
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
