Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension is a drop in blood pressure that occurs when standing up after sitting or lying down. That sudden drop momentarily reduces blood flow to the brain and produces sensations of unsteadiness.

Frequent symptoms: dizziness, a feeling of fainting, blurred vision, weakness or lightheadedness when getting up, which usually ease after staying still for a few moments.

Contributing factors: dehydration, certain medications, prolonged bed rest and some conditions of the nervous system or heart can favor it.

Which specialist evaluates it? The cardiologist and the internist study the cardiovascular causes, while the neurologist contributes when a nervous origin is suspected; the general practitioner can guide the first assessment. If dizziness when getting up is frequent, it's worth discussing at a visit.