Best Orthostatic Hypotension Doctors in Mumbai

Orthostatic hypotension, also known as postural hypotension, is a condition that leads to a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person stands up from a sitting or lying down position. This drop results from the body's inability to effectively constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. The causes vary widely and can range from neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease, dehydration, cardiovascular diseases, and even certain medications. Older adults are more susceptible to orthostatic hypotension, particularly those with chronic illnesses.

In Mumbai, with a significant elderly population orthostatic hypotension is not an uncommon condition. Fortunately, Mumbai is home to some of the best doctors for orthostatic hypotension who are skilled in managing this condition effectively. Apollo Hospitals Mumbai is renowned for housing the best doctors for orthostatic hypotension diagnosing and treatment.

Types/Stages of Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension is categorised into three types based on the timing and severity of the blood pressure drop:

• Classic Orthostatic Hypotension: This type is characterised by a sudden drop in blood pressure within 15 seconds to 1 minute after standing up. It is commonly seen in patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

• Initial Orthostatic Hypotension: This involves a rapid drop in blood pressure within a few seconds after standing up, followed by a slower recovery. It often occurs in individuals with cardiovascular conditions.

• Delayed Orthostatic Hypotension: This type manifests as a slower drop in blood pressure, usually 1-3 minutes after standing. It is often seen in individuals with conditions affecting blood volume like dehydration or bleeding.

Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension

The symptoms of orthostatic hypotension can vary but often include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness upon standing up

• Blurred vision

• Fainting, also known as syncope

• Nausea

• Fatigue or feeling weak

• Confusion or difficulty in concentration

Tests to Diagnose Orthostatic Hypotension

To diagnose orthostatic hypotension, the doctors for orthostatic hypotension perform the following tests:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination is performed to identify signs of autonomic dysfunction, such as slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and pale skin.

• Orthostatic Vital Signs: Blood pressure and heart rate measurements are taken when lying down and after standing up.

• Tilt Table Test: A test that monitors blood pressure and heart rate as the patient is tilted from a horizontal plane to an upright position.

• Echocardiogram: This test evaluates the heart's pumping function and rules out cardiac causes of orthostatic hypotension.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Orthostatic Hypotension at Apollo Hospitals Mumbai

At Apollo Hospitals Mumbai, general doctors for orthostatic hypotension are treated with a comprehensive approach that includes:

• Lifestyle Changes: Patients are advised to make necessary lifestyle adjustments such as avoiding prolonged standing, sitting, excessive heat or cold exposure, vigorous exercise, alcohol consumption, etc.

• Volume Expansion: Patients are advised to increase their fluid intake and salt consumption to expand blood volume.

• Compression Garments: Wearing garments like abdominal binders can help improve blood flow.

• Pharmacological Strategies: Medications like Midodrine, Fludrocortisone and Pyridostigmine may be prescribed to improve standing blood pressure and reduce symptoms.