Understanding Blood Pressure Changes When Standing: Causes & Orthostatic Hypotension

Blood pressure can change when you move from a sitting to standing position, because the blood settles in the leg vessels. With certain age groups, this is usually not a problem if it does not last long or become an ongoing problem. With others, it can be a problem.

Orthostatic Hypotension

• When blood pressure drops when changing from sitting to standing, this is called orthostatic hypotension.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include feeling lightheaded or dizzy. Some individuals may faint.

Normal Orthostatic Hypotension

• This condition is not usually of concern in teenagers and children if it does not last long or happen regularly.

Abnormal Orthostatic Hypotension

• If this occurs in older individuals, seek medical attention. A side effect of some medications commonly prescribed to older individuals may cause a problematic drop in blood pressure.

  Without enough blood pumping to the heart, chest pain or heart attack can occur. Regular low blood pressure can cause shock.

Considerations

• If an individual does not have low blood pressure, this drop in pressure is likely not noticed when standing.

  If there are any concerns, seek medical advice.