Table 4.

Recommendations for patients with orthostatic hypotension: From A to F

Your physician has determined that you have orthostatic hypotension. This means that your blood pressure drops when you stand up, making you feel dizzy or perhaps even pass out. The following may help.

A: Abdominal compression

Wear an abdominal binder when out of bed.

B: Bolus of water

On bad days, drink two 8-ounce glasses of cold water prior to prolonged standing.

B (continued): Bed up

Sleep with the head of the bed elevated 4 inches.

C: Countermaneuvers

Contract the muscles below your waist for about half a minute at a time to raise your blood pressure during prolonged standing or when you become symptomatic.

D: Drugs

Drugs such as midodrine (ProAmatine), pyridostigmine (Mestinon), and fludrocortisone (Florinef) can be used to raise your blood pressure.

Recognize that some drugs you take can lower blood pressure.

E: Education

Recognize symptoms that indicate your standing blood pressure is falling.

Recognize the conditions that lower blood pressure, such as a heavy meal, positional changes, heat, exercise, or a hot bath.

Learn the things you can do to raise your blood pressure.

E (continued): Exercise

Avoid inactivity and consider a gentle exercise program.

F: Fluids and salt

You need plenty of salt and fluids.