Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension often under-recognized by health care providers

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension (nOH) is often underrecognized by health care providers leading to worse clinical outcomes and diminished quality of life, according to a study.

Neurogenic orthostatic hypotension commonly affects patients with neurodegenerative diseases and is characterized by a sustained fall in blood pressure upon standing causing patients to feel lightheaded, faint, or dizzy.

The nonspecific nature of symptoms and patient comorbidities often lead nOH being under-diagnosed. In addition, patients are often reluctant to discuss their symptoms with health care professionals.

The study authors suggest health care providers have patients track symptoms in a daily journal and confirm a diagnosis by comparing blood pressure measurements while lying down and after standing up.

Reference
Gibson JS, Hunter CB, Hewitt LA. A Call to Action: The Role of Healthcare Providers in Reducing the Burden Associated with Neurogenic Orthostatic Hypotension [published online ahead of print, 2020 Jul 27]. Neurol Ther. 2020;10.1007/s40120-020-00203-6. doi:10.1007/s40120-020-00203-6