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Low Blood Pressure Caused by Position Change as a Fall Risk

9 January 2024

Orthostatic Hypotension is a prevalent condition in which blood pressure drops following a change of position, for instance, from lying to a seating position, or from sitting to standing up. This condition may cause falls.

Older adults suffering from hypertension, diabetes, renal failure, atherosclerosis, anemia, Parkinson’s disease, etc. are at high risk to suffer from this condition. To avoid this condition, it is important to maintain good hydration, to avoid taking baths, to change position slowly and to avoid sitting while bathing or while working in the kitchen.

Orthostatic Hypotension is a physical condition in which blood pressure drops following a change in position, for instance, from lying to a seating position, or from sitting to standing up, and it may even happen early in the morning (getting out of bed), after a heavy meal, or drinking alcohol, during a physical exercise, and in other situations.

When a sharp blood pressure drop occurs, less blood reaches the body organs and muscles, and consequently, a fall may occur.

Orthostatic Hypotension is a prevalent condition, but symptoms vary from person to person and some do not experience symptoms at all.

Common symptoms you should pay attention to

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness.
  • Feeling like "you are about to faint”, fainting or falling.
  • Headaches, blurred vision.
  • Blurring or confusion.
  • Pressure on the cervical spine (back of the neck( or shoulder blades.
  • Nausea, fever or sweating.
  • Weakness or fatigue.

Orthostatic Hypotension symptoms may appear in the following conditions

  • When changing position from lying to seating, or when standing up abruptly.
  • In the morning, when blood pressure is usually low.
  • After a large meal or drinking alcohol.
  • While engaging in a physical exercise or fitness workout.
  • When making an effort in the toilet.
  • During illness.
  • Following anxiety or pressure.

Risk factors related to Orthostatic Hypotension

  • Hypertension.
  • Diabetes.
  • Cardiac insufficiency.
  • Atherosclerosis.
  • Malnutrition or risk of malnutrition.
  • Substantial weight-loss.
  • Medication intake, such as diuretic pills, antidepressants, or blood pressure medications (antihypertensives).
  • Neurological conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease, or various types of dementia.
  • Dehydration.
  • Anemia or micronutrient deficiency, such as vitamin B12, or vitamin D.
  • Alcohol consumption.
  • Prolonged bedrest.

What can be done to alleviate and avoid Orthostatic Hypotension?

Check with your family doctor if the medications you take, daily, or specifically currently, are associated with Orthostatic Hypotension. Accordingly, it is time to find out whether to stop taking them or substitute them with other medications

Treatment to prevent malnutrition and nutritional deficiencies, diabetes balancing and a personally adapted nutritional program

Get out of bed slowly. First, sit down, and then sit on the side of the bed, and only then stand up.

Take your time when changing position. For example, when moving from sitting on a chair to a full standing position.

Try sitting down when engaging in activities, such as bathing, changing clothes, or working in the kitchen.

Before getting out of bed do some exercises, for instance, move your feet up and down, open and close your fists. After getting up, make a few steps in place.

It is recommended to install in advance an accessory like a grab bar, to help you grab and provide a support while getting out of bed.

If you are feeling dizzy, even slightly, stop! Do not walk if you are feeling dizzy. Wait for the feeling to subside to avoid a fall that may cause an injury.

A sufficient fluid intake of 6-8 glasses per day can alleviate symptoms. Drink plenty of water, unless you received a medical instruction to limit your fluid intake.

Avoid taking very hot baths or showers that may cause your blood vessels to dilate, and lower your blood pressure even more.

Try sleeping with several pillows to elevate your head. Elevation of the head will ensure that enough blood reaches the head area.