ORTHOSTASIS Meaning and
Definition
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Orthostasis refers to a medical condition characterized by a temporary drop in blood pressure upon standing up from a sitting or lying down position. It is also known as postural hypotension. This phenomenon occurs due to the body's inability to quickly adjust and regulate blood flow against the force of gravity.
When a person changes their body position, the gravitational force causes blood to accumulate in the lower extremities. Normally, the autonomic nervous system responds by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate to maintain a steady blood pressure. However, in individuals with orthostasis, this regulatory mechanism does not function properly, resulting in a sudden decrease in blood pressure. This can lead to symptoms such as lightheadedness, dizziness, blurred vision, and fainting.
Orthostasis can occur due to various factors, including dehydration, medication side effects, underlying medical conditions like diabetes or Parkinson's disease, and prolonged bed rest. It is particularly common among older individuals.
Diagnosis of orthostasis usually involves measuring blood pressure while the person is lying down, followed by readings obtained immediately after standing up and at specific time intervals thereafter. Treatment aims to address the underlying cause and manage symptoms. This may involve lifestyle modifications such as increasing fluid intake, avoiding sudden movements, and wearing compression stockings. Medications that help regulate blood pressure or improve fluid balance may also be prescribed.
Overall, orthostasis is a condition characterized by a transient drop in blood pressure upon assuming an upright posture, often resulting in symptoms of lightheadedness and dizziness.
Common Misspellings for ORTHOSTASIS
- orthostastic
- orthostatic
- irthostasis
- krthostasis
- lrthostasis
- prthostasis
- 0rthostasis
- 9rthostasis
- oethostasis
- odthostasis
- ofthostasis
- otthostasis
- o5thostasis
- o4thostasis
- orrhostasis
- orfhostasis
- orghostasis
- oryhostasis
- or6hostasis
- or5hostasis
Etymology of ORTHOSTASIS
The word orthostasis is derived from the Greek words orthos, meaning upright or correct, and stasis, meaning standing or position.
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