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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
14:09
Tilt Testing with Combined Lower Body Negative Pressure: a "Gold Standard" for Measuring Orthostatic Tolerance
Published on: March 21, 2013
[Orthostatic hypotension : diagnosis and therapy]
R Schimpf1, C Veltmann, M Borggrefe
1I. Medizinische Klinik, Universitätsmedizin Mannheim, Deutschland. rainer.schimpf@umm.de
Herzschrittmachertherapie & Elektrophysiologie
|April 22, 2011
Summary
Orthostatic hypotension (OH) causes fainting, especially in older adults, and significantly impacts quality of life. Effective management requires a tailored approach combining education, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy, often with medication for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Neurology
- Geriatrics
Context:
- Syncope is a common clinical event, with reflex syncope being the most prevalent mechanism.
- Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a less common cause in younger individuals but a critical consideration in the elderly.
- The incidence of OH-triggered syncope increases significantly with age, particularly in men over 70.
Purpose:
- To highlight orthostatic hypotension (OH) as a significant cause of syncope in the aging population.
- To discuss the causes, debilitating nature, and challenges in treating OH.
- To outline a comprehensive, patient-tailored management strategy for OH.
Summary:
- Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a frequent cause of syncope in older adults, leading to a reduced quality of life.
- Causes include volume depletion, medications, and autonomic dysfunction (e.g., diabetes, amyloidosis).
- Treatment necessitates a multi-faceted approach including patient education, physical therapy, isometric exercises, and pharmacotherapy for severe cases.
Impact:
- Improved understanding of OH as a cause of syncope in the elderly.
- Provides a framework for a holistic, individualized treatment strategy for OH.
- Aims to enhance patient outcomes by reducing syncopal events and improving daily functioning.
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