Postural Hypotension

Exam Cram

• Postural Hypotension is defined a drop in blood pressure of 20 systolic & 10 diasytolic

• Presentation: pre-syncope with standing, reduced mobility and falls; associated with Parkinson's, Multi System Atrophy (MSA) and dehydration

• Diagnosis: lying & standing BP 2 minutes apart

• Management:

  1. Ted stockings

  2. Review anti-hypertensives

  3. Consider fludrocortisone or midodrine (indicated in Parkinson's postural hypotension, contraindicated in heart failure)

Written in 2025. 

Resources and References