Orthostatic Hypotension: Causes, Symptoms & First Aid Awareness

Orthostatic hypotension refers to a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person stands up quickly. Blood pressure reflects the force of blood against artery walls. When standing, gravity pulls blood toward the legs, and the body usually adjusts to maintain steady blood flow to the brain. If this reflex response is delayed or weaker, blood pressure briefly drops, causing lightheadedness or dizziness.

This condition becomes more common with age as the body’s automatic regulation slows.

Relevance in Canadian First Aid & Workplaces

Orthostatic hypotension matters in community and workplace settings—particularly in older adults, people returning from bed rest, and settings involving heat exposure, dehydration, or long periods of sitting or standing. Awareness can help reduce fall risks and support safer movement from sitting to standing.

Scenario (Mild & Realistic)

During a summer heat wave, Sam stood up quickly after sitting at a picnic bench. He suddenly felt lightheaded and needed to sit back down for a moment. After a brief rest and drinking water, the dizziness passed and Sam paced himself when standing for the rest of the afternoon.

Symptoms of Orthostatic Hypotension

Symptoms generally appear shortly after standing and tend to improve when sitting or lying down. They can include:

• Lightheadedness or dizziness

• Blurred vision

• Nausea

• Headache

• Weakness or fatigue

• Palpitations

• Mild confusion in some individuals

Older adults may be especially affected, increasing their risk of falls.

Causes & Contributing Factors

Orthostatic hypotension may be related to:

• Dehydration

• Reduced blood volume

• Anaemia

• Pregnancy

• Long hot weather exposure

• Long-term bed rest or immobility

• Certain heart or neurological conditions

• Diabetes and related nerve changes

• Age-related changes to blood pressure regulation

• Combining alcohol with blood pressure–lowering medications

Management, First Aid, and Safety Awareness

First aid awareness focuses on comfort, safety, and preventing falls. Helpful strategies can include:

• Standing up slowly from sitting or lying down

• Pausing at the edge of the bed before walking

• Staying hydrated, especially during heat exposure

• Taking breaks during prolonged standing

• Avoiding sudden posture changes after long periods of inactivity

• Wearing supportive compression garments if recommended by a health professional

Individuals who continue to experience dizziness on standing or who have underlying health conditions may benefit from a medical assessment to explore contributing factors.

Prevention & Workplace Considerations

To help reduce episodes and related falls:

• Adjust pace when changing positions

• Monitor hydration during physical work or hot weather

• Provide seated breaks during long-standing tasks

• Enhance awareness among older workers or volunteers

• Manage environments with high heat or humidity

Workplaces may also consider:

• Heat stress management plans

• Ergonomic seating options

• Fall prevention and safe movement training in older adult environments

FAQ

Is orthostatic hypotension the same as low blood pressure?
Not exactly. It refers specifically to a temporary drop in blood pressure when standing.

Why is it more common with aging?
Reflexes that regulate blood pressure can become slower over time, making pressure changes harder to compensate for.

Can it cause fainting?
In some individuals, a significant drop can lead to brief fainting, though many people only experience lightheadedness.

Does it always require treatment?
Not always. Mild cases often improve with hydration, gradual movement, and awareness of triggers. Persistent or severe cases may need medical evaluation.

Educational Note

This article provides public and workplace education about orthostatic hypotension and fall awareness. Symptoms and contributing factors vary, and trained health professionals can assess concerns that affect daily activities or safety.