Diagnosis and management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension

Abstract

Orthostatic hypotension is a sustained and pathological drop in blood pressure upon standing. Orthostatic hypotension can be due to non-neurogenic conditions or autonomic disorders. Impaired baroreflex-mediated vasoconstriction and insufficient release of norepinephrine play key roles in the pathophysiology of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. Its common symptoms mainly related to inadequate cerebral blood flow include dizziness, lightheadedness, and syncope. It is crucial to differentiate neurogenic orthostatic hypotension from non-neurogenic orthostatic hypotension. For the management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, physicians should implement non-pharmacological methods and, if possible, reverse combined non-neurological conditions. Depending on severity of symptoms, pharmacological intervention may be tried after or with non-pharmacological methods. Its management should be individualized based on intensity of symptoms, comorbid conditions, drug side effects, and etiology. In this review, we discuss the definition, pathophysiology, clinical approach, and management of neurogenic orthostatic hypotension.