Patient discussions

Patients should be advised to:[64] Mayo clinic: orthostatic hypotension Opens in new window American Autonomic Society Opens in new window

  • sit when going from a supine to a standing position, to lessen orthostatic stress

  • use a bedside commode, if needed (to avoid syncope at night among patients with frequent nocturia)

  • avoid performing Valsalva-like maneuvers during isometric exercise, and avoid straining (e.g., during a bowel movement), to avoid reducing venous return to the heart and worsening orthostatic hypotension (OH)

  • eat small, frequent meals, to lessen postprandial falls in blood pressure

  • use physical counter-maneuvers when upright, such as leg-crossing, standing on tiptoes, and muscle tensing, to increase venous return to the heart and enhance orthostatic tolerance

  • stay well hydrated and avoid other aggravating factors that worsen OH.

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