Heart Health
When blood pressure falls after you stand up
Known as orthostatic hypotension, this condition becomes more common with age and frailty.
- Reviewed by Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
That odd sensation of feeling lightheaded or dizzy after standing up happens to most people at least once in a while. Caused by a temporary delay in blood flow to the brain, the feeling usually resolves within a few seconds. But in some people, blood pressure plummets and stays low for a minute or longer after they stand up from a seated position. The problem, known as orthostatic hypotension (hypotension means low blood pressure) can cause people to fall, possibly leading to injury and disability.
However, most people with orthostatic hypotension don't have any symptoms. Another complication: it affects about one in 10 people with high blood pressure, which is very common in older adults. In fact, nearly 75% of people ages 60 and older have blood pressure readings of 130/80 mm Hg or higher (the definition of high blood pressure). An optimal blood pressure levels is lower than 120/80 mm Hg.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Christopher P. Cannon, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
