Orthostatic hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension is a common clinical manifestation of impaired homeostasis, seen in 15%-20% of the general elderly population. Its prevalence increases with age, cardiovascular disease, and higher baseline blood pressure. Many elderly individuals experience large fluctuations in blood pressure with postural changes, which are closely related to their baseline supine systolic blood pressure. That is, when the baseline supine systolic blood pressure is highest, the postural decrease in systolic blood pressure is greatest, and in orthostatic hypotension, the systolic blood pressure drops by 20 mmHg (2.7 kPa) upon standing. Orthostatic hypotension is an important risk factor for syncope and falls in the elderly, even in those without other evidence of autonomic nervous system dysfunction. Orthostatic hypotension should not be underestimated.