Postural hypotension

You may have been diagnosed as having Postural hypotension by your GP or ward Doctor. This leaflet is designed to give you some information and guidance on how to self-manage this condition with some simple exercises and advise. Postural hypotension is a drop in blood pressure due to a change in body position, most commonly when standing up. This drop in blood pressure causes a temporary reduction in blood flow to the brain.

Symptoms are most common after standing up and can include:

• Dizziness
• Light headedness
• Weakness
• Fainting
• Nausea
• Heart palpitations

Things that can make your symptoms worse

• Dehydration
• Symptoms may be worse in the morning
• Symptoms may be worse after standing still, sitting or lying down for a long time
• Drinking alcohol
• Hot temperatures
• Infection or illness
• Straining on the toilet

What can you do to help?

• Wear compression stockings
• Your physiotherapist or doctor may recommend an abdominal binder.
• Try to drink a large glass of cold water before standing up
• Try sleeping in a more upright position in bed, with more pillows.
• Make sure you are drinking enough water throughout the day.
• If your symptoms are severe, talk to your doctor about increasing the amount of salt in your diet.
• Exercises can reduce your symptoms. We would encourage you to try the exercises on the next pages.

Simple exercises to help decrease your symptoms

Exercises to do while sitting, before you stand up:

Toe tapping

Sitting with your feet flat on the floor, lift your toes up with your heel still on the ground, then ‘tap’ them back onto the ground. Do this for 10 seconds, 3 times.

Heel lifts

Sitting with your feet flat on the floor, lift your heel off the floor onto your tiptoes, then lower your heels back to the ground. Do this for 10 seconds, 3 times.

Marching on the spot

Sitting down, march your legs briskly on the spot. Repeat this for 10 seconds, 3 times.

Leg extensions

Sitting down with both feet flat on the floor. Lift one foot off the floor until your knee is straight. Hold for 10 seconds, then slowly lower your foot back to the floor. Repeat 3 times, then repeat the exercise on the other leg