Symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness when you stand up don't necessarily mean that you low blood pressure, also called postural hypotension. A wide range of underlying conditions may cause your symptoms. It's important to identify the cause of low blood pressure so appropriate treatment can be given.
The doctor will look at your medical history, age, specific symptoms, and the conditions under which the symptoms occurred. He or she may perform repeated evaluations of your blood pressure and pulse rate -- after you've been lying down for a few minutes and within a few minutes after you stand quietly.
Other tests may be performed, such as an ECG (electrocardiogram) to measure heart rate and rhythm problems and an echocardiogram (an ultrasound test to visualize the heart). You may also have blood tests to look for anemia or problems with your blood sugar levels.
More sophisticated home ECG monitoring (a Holter monitor or "event" monitor) may be necessary to check for heart problems that occur intermittently.
An exercise stress test or -- less commonly -- an electrophysiology test (EP test) may also be helpful.
Serious forms of postural hypotension may require a test called a "tilt table" test. This test evaluates the body's reaction to position and changes in position. The person lies on a table, is safely strapped in, and the table is raised to an upright position for up to an hour. Blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms are recorded. Often, medications are given to help guide treatment.
The doctor will look at your medical history, age, specific symptoms, and the conditions under which the symptoms occurred. He or she may perform repeated evaluations of your blood pressure and pulse rate -- after you've been lying down for a few minutes and within a few minutes after you stand quietly.
Other tests may be performed, such as an ECG (electrocardiogram) to measure heart rate and rhythm problems and an echocardiogram (an ultrasound test to visualize the heart). You may also have blood tests to look for anemia or problems with your blood sugar levels.
More sophisticated home ECG monitoring (a Holter monitor or "event" monitor) may be necessary to check for heart problems that occur intermittently.
An exercise stress test or -- less commonly -- an electrophysiology test (EP test) may also be helpful.
Serious forms of postural hypotension may require a test called a "tilt table" test. This test evaluates the body's reaction to position and changes in position. The person lies on a table, is safely strapped in, and the table is raised to an upright position for up to an hour. Blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms are recorded. Often, medications are given to help guide treatment.
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