- Parents Home
- Para Padres
- Allergy Center
- Asthma Center
- Cancer Center
- Diabetes Center
- Diseases & Conditions
- Doctors & Hospitals
- Emotions & Behavior
- First Aid & Safety
- Flu Center
- Food Allergy Center
- General Health
- Growth & Development
- Heart Health
- Homework Help Center
- Infections
- Newborn Center
- Nutrition & Fitness Center
- Play & Learn Center
- Pregnancy Center
- Q&A
- Recipes
- School & Family Life
- Sports Medicine Center
- Videos
- Kids Home
- Para Niños
- Asthma Center
- Cancer Center
- Diabetes Center
- Feelings
- Getting Help
- Health Problems
- Health Problems of Grown-Ups
- Heart Center
- Homework Center
- How the Body Works
- Illnesses & Injuries
- Kids' Medical Dictionary
- Movies & More
- Nutrition & Fitness Center
- Puberty & Growing Up
- Q&A
- Recipes & Cooking
- Relax & Unwind Center
- Stay Safe Center
- Staying Healthy
- Staying Safe
- Videos
- Teens Home
- Para Adolescentes
- Asthma Center
- Be Your Best Self Center
- Cancer Center
- Diabetes Center
- Diseases & Conditions
- Drugs & Alcohol
- Expert Answers (Q&A)
- Flu Center
- Homework Help Center
- Infections
- Managing Your Medical Care
- Managing Your Weight
- Nutrition & Fitness Center
- Recipes
- Safety & First Aid
- School & Work
- Sports Center
- Stress & Coping Center
- Videos
- Your Body
- Your Mind
A to Z: Orthostatic Hypotension
May also be called: Postural Hypotension
Orthostatic hypotension is an abnormal drop in blood pressure that occurs when someone goes from sitting or lying down to standing up. This reduction in blood flow causes an oxygen shortage in the brain, leading to lightheadedness, dizziness, and sometimes fainting.
More to Know
The body has natural systems in place to quickly regulate blood pressure when changes in blood flow occur. With orthostatic hypotension, however, these natural systems are interrupted.
Certain medications can cause orthostatic hypotension, as can dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea, untreated diabetes, or excessive sweating. Severe bleeding, heart problems, nervous system disorders, and other factors can also trigger the condition.
Besides feeling faint, someone experiencing orthostatic hypotension might have blurry vision or feel nauseated, weak, and confused. After standing, symptoms usually last for only a few seconds to a few minutes. If they continue longer or there is loss of consciousness, an underlying condition might be involved that requires treatment.
Treatment for orthostatic hypotension may include medications or increasing fluids and salt in the diet. Standing up slowly, wearing elastic stockings, and sleeping with the head slightly elevated also can help ease the effects of orthostatic hypotension.
Keep in Mind
While orthostatic hypotension can sometimes indicate a more serious problem, most cases can be successfully treated.
All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995- The Nemours Foundation. KidsHealth® is a registered trademark of The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.
Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.