Walking (Postural?) Hypotension

  • Thread starter chirhone
  • Start date
In summary, the conversation discusses a friend who experiences an increase in blood pressure when sitting for too long. However, when he walks for an hour, his blood pressure decreases to 100/60. Despite consulting with expert cardiologists, they are not familiar with this phenomenon and the speaker is curious if it is called Postural Hypotension or a nervous system malfunction. The speaker advises the friend to continue monitoring their blood pressure and seeking professional help for further analysis.
  • #1
chirhone
300
25
When my friend sits too long. His blood pressure increases. When he walks like for an hour, his blood pressure goes down even to 100/60. He is 40 years old. He consulted with expert cardiologists but it seemed they were not familiar with this phenomenon where walking makes the bp go down. Is this called Postural Hypotension? I'm looking for articles that describes walking and relation to bp. Is this a nervous system malfunction?

Do not worry. He is still seeking professional help (and not from me of course) but the phenomenon is not widely known. So I'm just curious about it.
 
Biology news on Phys.org
  • #2
Sorry, it would not be appropriate for us to try to offer diagnoses (Dx) or medical advice on this. There are just so many variables to be considered and tests that should be done (including a treadmill stress test).

Please just keep encouraging your friend to take his BP several times a day in different situations, and to show those readings to his physician for further analysis. Best wishes.
 
  • Like
Likes jim mcnamara

What is walking (postural) hypotension?

Walking (postural) hypotension, also known as orthostatic hypotension, is a sudden drop in blood pressure that occurs when a person stands up from a sitting or lying down position. This can lead to dizziness, lightheadedness, and even fainting.

What causes walking (postural) hypotension?

Walking (postural) hypotension can be caused by a variety of factors, including dehydration, medications, and certain medical conditions such as heart problems, nerve damage, or endocrine disorders. It can also be a normal physiological response to standing up quickly.

Who is at risk for developing walking (postural) hypotension?

Individuals who are elderly, have a history of low blood pressure, or are taking certain medications are at a higher risk for developing walking (postural) hypotension. People with certain medical conditions, such as Parkinson's disease or diabetes, may also be more prone to experiencing this condition.

How is walking (postural) hypotension diagnosed?

Walking (postural) hypotension can be diagnosed through a physical exam, as well as by measuring blood pressure while lying down, sitting, and standing. Additional tests may be done to determine the underlying cause of the condition.

What are the treatment options for walking (postural) hypotension?

Treatment for walking (postural) hypotension depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, simple lifestyle changes such as increasing fluid intake and standing up slowly can help alleviate symptoms. Medications may also be prescribed to help regulate blood pressure. In severe cases, other interventions such as wearing compression stockings or receiving intravenous fluids may be necessary.

Similar threads

  • Biology and Medical
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • General Discussion
Replies
8
Views
2K
  • General Discussion
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
33
Views
5K
  • Special and General Relativity
Replies
17
Views
3K
  • Other Physics Topics
Replies
3
Views
1K
Replies
3
Views
918
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
2K
Back
Top