What Causes Postural Hypotension?
Postural hypotension, also called orthostatic hypotension, is a state of low blood pressure that occurs when someone stands up after being in a sitting or reclining position. According to the Mayo Clinic, a person’s body normally adjusts itself after changing position, and is able to counteract the drop in blood pressure. Postural hypotension happens when the body is unable to make the transition, and is characterized by lightheadedness, dizziness or “seeing stars” and sometimes fainting. The causes for this lack of ability to counteract low blood pressure can range from not drinking enough water to suffering from chronic illness.
