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DownloadPostural hypotension is a drop in blood pressure due to a change in body position, most commonly when standing up. This drop in blood pressure causes a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain.
Symptoms.
Symptoms are most common after standing up and can include
These situations can make your symptoms worse:
Symptoms may be worse in the morning.
Symptoms may be worse after standing still, sitting or lying down for a long time.
The following actions may help improve your symptoms:
If your symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor about increasing the amount of salt in your diet.
Exercises to do while sitting, before you stand up.
Toe tapping
Sitting with your feet flat on the floor, lift your toes up with your heel still on the ground, then ‘tap’ them back onto the ground. Do this for 10 seconds, 3 times.
Heel lifts
Sitting with your feet flat on the floor, lift your heel off the floor onto your ‘tiptoes’, then lower your heels back to the ground. Do this for 10 seconds, three times.
Marching on the spot
Sitting down, march your legs briskly on the spot. Repeat this for 10 seconds, three times.
Leg extensions
Sitting down with both feet flat on the floor. Lift one foot off the floor until your knee is straight. Hold for 10 seconds, then slowly lower your foot back to the floor. Repeat three times, then repeat the exercise on the other leg.
You should see your GP if:
For general medical advice please use the NHS website, the NHS 111 service, walk-in-centres, or your GP.
This information is intended for patients receiving care in Brighton & Hove or Haywards Heath.
This information is for guidance purposes only and is in no way intended to replace professional clinical advice by a qualified practitioner.
Publication Date: October 2018
Review Date: December 2022