Question 1

What is Orthostatic Hypotension?

Accepted Answer

Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position. It is caused by the body's inability to produce adequate norepinephrine and other catecholamines in response to position changes. The Catecholamines, Fractionated, Plasma test is the most important test for identifying autonomic nervous system dysfunction causing orthostatic hypotension.

Question 2

What causes orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

Orthostatic hypotension is caused by the autonomic nervous system's failure to properly regulate blood pressure when changing positions. When you stand up, gravity causes blood to pool in your legs, and normally your nervous system releases norepinephrine and other catecholamines to constrict blood vessels and maintain blood flow to your brain. When this system malfunctions due to nerve damage, medication side effects, dehydration, or underlying conditions like diabetes or Parkinson's disease, blood pressure drops too quickly, causing dizziness or fainting.

Question 3

What is the best test for orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

The Catecholamines, Fractionated, Plasma test is the most important blood test for orthostatic hypotension because it measures norepinephrine, epinephrine, and dopamine levels that are essential for blood pressure regulation. This test reveals whether your autonomic nervous system is producing adequate catecholamines to respond when you stand up. Low norepinephrine levels specifically indicate autonomic dysfunction, which is a primary cause of orthostatic hypotension. Your healthcare provider will also diagnose the condition by measuring your blood pressure while lying down and after standing, but the catecholamine test identifies the underlying biochemical cause.

Question 4

When should I get tested for orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you regularly feel dizzy or lightheaded when standing up from sitting or lying down, especially if you have actually fainted or nearly fainted. Testing is particularly important if you experience blurred vision, weakness, confusion, or nausea when changing positions, or if you have conditions like diabetes or Parkinson's disease that affect nerve function. You should also consider testing if you take medications for high blood pressure or heart conditions and develop these symptoms, as they may indicate your nervous system's ability to regulate blood pressure is compromised.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

Symptoms of orthostatic hypotension occur when you stand up and include feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or faint. You might experience blurred or tunnel vision, weakness, confusion, nausea, or a feeling that you're about to pass out. Some people notice their legs feel weak or shaky, or they experience neck and shoulder pain in a coat-hanger pattern. Symptoms typically appear within seconds to a few minutes of standing and improve when sitting or lying down. In severe cases, you may actually faint and fall, which can lead to injuries.

Question 6

Who is at risk for orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

People over age 65 are at higher risk for orthostatic hypotension because the nervous system naturally becomes less responsive with age. You face increased risk if you have diabetes, Parkinson's disease, multiple system atrophy, or other conditions affecting nerve function. Taking medications for high blood pressure, heart conditions, depression, or erectile dysfunction also increases risk. Dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, and heart problems like valve disease or heart failure make you more susceptible. Additionally, people with anemia or who have experienced significant blood loss are at higher risk.

Question 7

What happens if orthostatic hypotension is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated orthostatic hypotension significantly increases your risk of falls and serious injuries from fainting, including bone fractures and head trauma. The repeated drops in blood flow to your brain can lead to stroke, cognitive decline, and reduced quality of life due to constant fear of falling. Chronic orthostatic hypotension can worsen existing heart conditions and may indicate progressive neurological diseases that need treatment. The condition can severely limit your ability to perform daily activities, exercise, or maintain independence, especially if you avoid standing or moving to prevent symptoms.

Question 8

Can orthostatic hypotension be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Orthostatic hypotension is diagnosed by measuring the drop in your blood pressure when you stand up, not directly through blood tests. However, blood tests like the Catecholamines, Fractionated, Plasma test are essential for identifying the underlying cause of your blood pressure regulation problems. These tests measure neurotransmitter levels that control blood vessel constriction and reveal whether autonomic nervous system dysfunction is causing your symptoms. Blood work can also identify contributing factors like anemia, vitamin deficiencies, or hormonal imbalances that affect blood volume and pressure regulation.

Question 9

How is orthostatic hypotension treated?

Accepted Answer

Treatment for orthostatic hypotension focuses on addressing the underlying cause and managing symptoms. Your doctor may adjust or discontinue medications that contribute to low blood pressure, recommend increasing salt and fluid intake to boost blood volume, or prescribe medications like fludrocortisone or midodrine that help maintain blood pressure. Lifestyle changes include rising slowly from sitting or lying positions, wearing compression stockings, elevating the head of your bed, eating smaller meals, and avoiding alcohol. Physical counter-maneuvers like crossing your legs or tensing muscles before standing can also help prevent blood pressure drops.

Question 10

How can I prevent orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

You can prevent orthostatic hypotension episodes by staying well-hydrated throughout the day and avoiding situations that trigger symptoms. Stand up slowly, pausing for a few seconds after sitting up before standing fully. Avoid prolonged standing, hot showers, and large meals, which can worsen blood pressure drops. Regular exercise that strengthens leg muscles helps pump blood back to your heart, and sleeping with your head elevated 4-6 inches helps your body adjust to position changes. Limit alcohol consumption, avoid crossing your legs while sitting for long periods, and consider wearing compression stockings if recommended by your healthcare provider.

Question 11

What can I do at home for orthostatic hypotension?

Accepted Answer

At home, increase your salt intake by adding extra salt to meals unless your doctor advises against it, and drink plenty of water to maintain blood volume. When getting up, sit on the edge of the bed for a minute and pump your ankles before standing. Wear waist-high compression stockings during the day to prevent blood pooling in your legs. Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large ones, and avoid caffeine and alcohol which can worsen symptoms. Keep a chair or stable furniture nearby so you can sit immediately if you feel dizzy, and consider setting up your living space to minimize the need for sudden position changes.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Orthostatic Hypotension Blood Test

What is Orthostatic Hypotension?

What causes orthostatic hypotension?

What is the best test for orthostatic hypotension?

When should I get tested for orthostatic hypotension?

References

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Us vs. Them

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say

Ask AI