Best Doctors for Orthostatic Hypotension in Indore

Types/Stages of Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension can be broadly classified into three categories:

• Classic Orthostatic Hypotension: This is characterised by a sudden and significant drop in blood pressure within 3 minutes of standing up. This type is often associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

• Initial Orthostatic Hypotension: A rapid drop in blood pressure occurs immediately after standing up, typically within 15 seconds, followed by a quick recovery. It is commonly seen in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

• Delayed Orthostatic Hypotension: In this type, the drop in blood pressure occurs more than 3 minutes after standing up. This type is most prevalent among individuals with conditions affecting their blood volume, like dehydration or hypovolemia (blood loss).

Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension can present a variety of symptoms, which include:

• Dizziness

• Lightheadedness

• Blurred vision

• Fainting or temporary loss of consciousness

• Unsteadiness, increasing the risk of falls

• Nausea or a general feeling of being unwell

• Fatigue or a sensation of weakness

• Confusion or difficulty concentrating

Tests to Diagnose Orthostatic Hypotension

The best doctors for orthostatic hypotension diagnose the condition using certain tests that include:

• Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Measurement: Blood pressure and heart rate are measured after the patient has been lying down for several minutes and again after standing up.

• Tilt Table Test: This involves strapping the patient to a table that tilts them from a horizontal to an upright position while continuously monitoring blood pressure and heart rate.

• Blood Tests: These are performed to check for conditions like diabetes, anaemia, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances that can contribute to orthostatic hypotension.

• Echocardiogram: This ultrasound test evaluates the heart’s structure and function, helping to rule out cardiac causes of orthostatic hypotension, such as heart failure or valve problems.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Orthostatic Hypotension at Apollo Hospitals, Indore

At Apollo Hospitals, Indore, the best doctors for orthostatic hypotension treatment adopt the following strategies to treat the condition:

• Lifestyle Changes: Patients are guided to make necessary lifestyle adjustments such as avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, minimising excessive heat or cold exposure, avoiding vigorous exercise and reducing alcohol consumption.

• Volume Expansion: Patients are advised to increase their fluid intake and salt consumption to expand blood volume.

• Compression Garments: Wearing compression garments such as abdominal binders can help improve blood flow and prevent blood from accumulating in the legs.

• Medication: Depending on the severity, medications like fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid to increase blood volume), pyridostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor to enhance nerve signalling for better constriction), and midodrine (an alpha-1 adrenergic receptor agonist to constrict blood vessels and raise pressure ) are commonly used to treat orthostatic hypotension.