Do You Know the Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension?
Do You Know the Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension?
What's This About?
Recognizing the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension can help you avoid serious complications. Learn what to watch out for and when to seek help.
Contents
- Common Symptoms to Look For
- Lesser-Known Indicators
- Severity and Impact on Daily Life
Common Symptoms to Look For
Symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting occur when standing up. These are due to a drop in blood pressure that reduces blood flow to the brain, causing you to feel unsteady.
Lesser-Known Indicators
Symptoms like visual disturbances, cognitive slowing, and neck pain are less commonly associated but can indicate orthostatic hypotension. These symptoms can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.
Severity and Impact on Daily Life
The severity of symptoms can range from mild dizziness to severe syncope. In some cases, the condition can significantly impact daily activities, making it difficult to perform routine tasks without experiencing symptoms.
FAQs
What are the main symptoms?
Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting are main symptoms.
Are there visual signs?
Yes, visual blurring or darkened fields can occur.
Can it affect cognition?
Yes, it can cause cognitive slowing.
Is neck pain a symptom?
Yes, neck pain can be a symptom.
Wrapping Up
Recognizing the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension can help you manage and seek treatment effectively.
Additional References
- Bleasdale-Barr KM, Mathias CJ. Neck and other muscle pains in autonomic failure: their association with orthostatic hypotension. J R Soc Med 1998; 91:355.
- Robertson D, Kincaid DW, Haile V, Robertson RM. The head and neck discomfort of autonomic failure: an unrecognized aetiology of headache. Clin Auton Res 1994; 4:99.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.