-IBIS-1.5.0-
tx
cardiovascular system
hypotension
diagnoses
definition and etiology
definition:
not a disease entity in itself, but a manifestation of irregularities in BP regulation
etiology:
This condition is often caused by drug or disease interference with the autonomic nervous system or a frank lack of blood volume. There are many specific underlying causes which the physician must identify. When low grade orthostatic hypotension exists, it is often ignored by patient and doctor, but should not be, as it is a clear warning sign of underlying problems.
signs and symptoms
orthostatic hypotension: diminished ability of the body to respond to the pressure changes in the vascular system when a person rises to a standing position; often caused by drug or disease interference with the autonomic nervous system or reduced blood volume.
signs and symptoms:
faintness, lightheadedness, mental or visual blurring, and less often, syncope or seizures
neuropathic hypotension: from diseases involving the autonomic system, including:
diabetes mellitus
amyloidosis
porphyria
syphilis
pernicious anemia
uremia
Parkinson's disease
Guillain-Barre syndrome
Riley-Day syndrome (familial dysautotonia)
Shy-Drager syndrome
idiopathic orthostatic hypotension
lab findings:
rule out the above with CBC, chem screen, UA and other tests as indicated
course and prognosis
prognosis depends upon the underlying cause
differential diagnosis
orthostatic hypotension
drug-induced hypotension
nephrotic syndrome hypotension
neuropathic hypotension
anemia/hypovolemia
Shy-Drager syndrome
idiopathic orthostatic hypotension
footnotes