Complications of Orthostatic Hypotension-2

Patient/caregiver was educated upon complications of orthostatic hypotension as follows: Increased pooling of blood in the lower portions of the body, with reduced blood and oxygen supply to heart muscle can result in chest pain and discomfort. In severe cases, individuals can even present with an episode of myocardial infarction or heart attack, damaging the heart muscle further. Progressive damage to heart muscle with unresolving hypotension can lead to arrhythmias and heart failure. Unresolved orthostatic [...]

Complications of Orthostatic Hypotension-1

Patient/caregiver was educated upon complications of orthostatic hypotension as follows: Low blood pressure and reduced blood supply to the upper portions of the body, head & neck, and brain can contribute to altered level of consciousness, dizziness, confusion, reduced concentration, frequent blackouts, and blurred vision. Severely compromised blood supply to the brain can result in dangerous consequences, such as, stroke and coma. Increased confusion and altered levels of consciousness can steeply increase risk for falls [...]

Findings to Watch for and Report in Individuals with History of Orthostatic Hypotension-3

Patient/caregiver was educated upon findings to watch for and report in individuals with orthostatic hypotension as follows: Orthostatic hypotensive individuals with coexisting history of bleeding peptic ulcers, hemorrhoids, or any other condition that can cause an internal bleed, can be at higher risk for exacerbation of orthostatic hypotension. Individuals with such history must keep a close watch on the color of urine and stool. Report to the physician regarding any findings of blood in the [...]

Findings to Watch for and Report in Individuals with History of Orthostatic Hypotension-2

Patient/caregiver was educated upon findings to watch for and report in individuals with orthostatic hypotension as follows: Any cause of fluid loss in the body, such as, warm climate with excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, can contribute to low blood volume, which lowers the blood pressure, resulting in orthostatic hypotension. Report to your physician regarding any poorly controlled nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can worsen the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension. Conditions such as, acute [...]

Findings to Watch for and Report in Individuals with History of Orthostatic Hypotension-1

Patient/caregiver was educated upon findings to watch for and report in individuals with orthostatic hypotension as follows: Observe compliance with log maintenance of blood pressure readings, in laying down, sitting, and standing positions. Report to your physician regarding any fall of systolic blood pressure of 20 mm Hg and more or diastolic blood pressure of 10 mm Hg and more, on sudden change of position. Report to your physician regarding any consistent heart rate less [...]