Cardiovascular · UKMLA & AKT
Orthostatic/ postural hypotension
A free high-yield preview for the UKMLA Applied Knowledge Test. Below are the key points to recognise orthostatic/ postural hypotension — the full SA Note notes add investigations, management, complications and 10 practice questions.
Key high-yield points
- Measured after 5 minutes supine, then at 1 and 3 minutes of standing
- Diagnostic threshold: SBP drop ≥20 mmHg (≥30 mmHg in known hypertensives) OR DBP drop ≥10 mmHg - must occur within 3 minutes of standing
The BP drop must occur within 3 minutes of standing - not immediately, and not at 5 minutes. A drop at 5 minutes does not satisfy the standard definition.
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