Orthostatic hypotension

Causes, mechanisms, and influencing factors

Mathias, Christopher J. DPhil FRCP

From the Autonomic Unit, University Department of Clinical Neurology, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery and Institute of Neurology, Queen Square, and Cardiovascular Medicine Unit, Department of Medicine, St Mary's Hospital Medical School/Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine, University of London, UK.
Address correspondence and reprint requests to Professor C.J. Mathias, Autonomic Unit, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, Queen Square, London, WC1 3BG, UK.

Neurology 45(4):p S6-S11, April 1995.

Blood pressure homeostasis is particularly challenged by moving to an upright position.The autonomic nervous system, structural factors, infravascular volume, and circulating and local hormones influence the body's response to a change in posture. Disorders of the autonomic nervous system can result in orthostatic hypotension. Both neurogenic and nonneurogenic disorders can contribute, and distinguishing between the two causes is important for both diagnosis and management. It is also important to recognize various factors in daily life that influence orthostatic hypotension.

NEUROLOGY 1995;45(suppl 5)

S6-S11