Clinical presentation of orthostatic hypotension in the elderly
- 1 September 1994
- journal article
- case report
- Published by Oxford University Press (OUP)
- Vol. 70 (827), 638-642
- https://doi.org/10.1136/pgmj.70.827.638
Abstract
Summary: Fifty cases of orthostatic hypotension in the elderly are analysed. Three main modes of presentation were identified: (1) falls or mobility problems; (2) mental confusion or dementia; or (3) predominantly cardiac symptoms. Selected case histories are given to illustrate diagnostic difficulties. Medication was responsible for orthostatic hypotension in 66% of patients and striking examples of polypharmacy were encountered. However, 34% of cases were not iatrogenic. Only 14% of patients had overtly postural symptoms. A high index of suspicion is needed to diagnose orthostatic hypotension in the elderly and the condition is often overlooked. The paper provides useful diagnostic clues for clinicians.Keywords
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