Cardio diseases Flashcards
1
Q
What is postural hypotension?
A
Low blood pressure which happens when standing up after sitting down or lying down.
2
Q
What causes postural hypotension?
A
Failure of the baroreceptor reflex to correct the drop in BP caused by gravity on standing up.
(gravity decreases venous return= less cardiac output= decreased MAP)
3
Q
What are some risk factors for postural hypotension?
A
Age
Medications
Diseases
Reduced intravascular volume (hypotension, dehydration)
Prolonged bed rest
4
Q
What BP drop is required to diagnose postural hypotension?
A
On standing up, within 3 minutes, a drop of:
20mmHg systolic or 10mmHg diastolic with symptoms.
5
Q
Symptoms of postural hypotension?
A
Dizziness, Light headedness, blurred vision
Faints/LOC
Falls
