Patient/caregiver was educated upon life-style measures for individuals with history of orthostatic hypotension as follows:
- Management of orthostatic hypotension depends on the factors contributing to the condition. The management measures are aimed at preventing pooling of blood in the large veins of the legs and allowing more fluid volume in circulation to reach the upper parts of body and sudden drop in blood pressure.
- 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 than 60. Observe compliance with all cardiac medications, as prescribed.
- Avoid sudden change in positions. While lying in the bed, elevate head of the bed using 2 pillows, to prevent significant drop in blood pressure during a position change. While standing up from a lying down position, assume this position in a step-wise manner. First, maintain a sitting posture on the bed for 2 – 3 minutes, before standing up. Exercise care especially in the early morning, when you are getting out of bed, after prolonged night long sleep.
- During acute onset episode of orthostatic hypotension, assuming a sitting down or lying down position could offer relief and help to reinforce safety, by preventing accidents and falls.
