A number of simple measures to help reduce the symptoms of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) in susceptible patients have been recommended.1
- Blood volume repletion (a minimum of 64 oz or 2L of water intake daily), depending on cardiac status. In addition, rapid consumption (within 5 min) of 16 oz or 500 ml of water can raise blood pressure by 30 mmHg for about an hour. It’s worth noting that liquids other than water (eg, water plus salt) do not provide the same BP response, likely due to water-induced hypo-osmolar reflex in the portal circulation.2,3
- Increase salt intake if possible (eg, add 1-2 teaspoons or 2.3-4.6 g of salt per day), as many patients with nOH have an inadequate salt intake.
- Improve physical conditioning that is not gravitationally challenging (eg, stationary recumbent bicyle, rowing machine).
- Avoid increased core body temperature (eg hot tubs, prolonged hot showers).
- Head-up position while sleeping through use of a wedge under the mattress or blocks under the head of the bed so that the head is 6-9 inches (15-23 cm) higher than the feet. This is to minimize nocturnal supine hypertension which can cause pressure diuresis and volume depletion.
- Compressive garments, preferably either an abdominal binder or thigh high stockings when erect; knee high stocking are not likely to be effective.
- Smaller, more frequent, meals not high in carbohydrates in patients with postprandial hypotension.
- Dietary supplementation with B12 or iron, if deficient.
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References
- Gibbons CH, Schmidt P, Biaggioni I, et al. The recommendations of a consensus panel for the screening, diagnosis, and treatment of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension and associated supine hypertension. J Neurol 2017;264:1567-1582. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28050656
- Jordan J, Shannon JR, Black BK, et al. The pressor response to water drinking in humans: a sympathetic reflex? Circulation 101:504-9. http://circ.ahajournals.org/content/101/5/504.long
- Raj SR, Biaggioni I, Black BK, et al. Sodium paradoxically reduces the gastropressor response in patients with orthostatic hypotension. Hypertension 2007;48:329-334. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16785332
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