Complicated Terms For Minor Illnesses

Orthostatic Hypotension

In orthostatic hypotension, which is also referred to as a head rush, the patient’s blood pressure drops suddenly upon standing or stretching. The systolic blood pressure (the one on top) must drop at least 20 mm Hg while the diastolic blood pressure (the number on the bottom) must drop at least 10 mm Hg. So, 120/80 mm Hg to 100/70 mm Hg upon standing means a quick head rush. Blood pools in the patient’s legs, leaving too little in the upper body to maintain whole body blood pressure. This condition is characterized by dizziness or lightheadedness. Sometimes it can lead to fainting and it is quite normal to experience this once in a while. Individuals should check with their doctor if they experience these symptoms frequently.

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