What is orthostatic hypotension?

Author: SCIRE Community Team | Reviewer: Darryl Caves | Published: 9 April 2018 | Updated: ~

Orthostatic hypotension (also called postural hypotension) is a decrease in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position to an upright position.

Orthostatic hypotension is common early after an SCI, but it can also be present long-term or following an illness or period of reduced mobility. Orthostatic hypotension may happen with or without symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of orthostatic hypotension:

Blurry image of a city in the night time.

Blurry vision is a common symptom of orthostatic hypotension.1

  • Dizziness
  • Light-headedness
  • Fainting
  • Temporary loss of consciousness (experiencing a ‘black out’)
  • Fatigue (tiredness)
  • Blurry vision
  • Muscle weakness

Orthostatic hypotension is more common early after injury. For some people, orthostatic hypotension gradually goes away as their body adapts to the changes after the injury. However, for others, orthostatic hypotension persists over time and may require treatment to manage their symptoms.