orthostatic hypotension

Definition

A drop in blood pressure upon standing, causing dizziness and proving that gravity is not always your friend. It's why hospitals have handrails and why grandma needs to stand up slowly.

Example Usage

The patient experienced orthostatic hypotension with a 30 mmHg drop in systolic pressure, attributed to dehydration.

Origin

From Greek 'orthos' (upright) + 'stasis' (standing) + 'hypo' (under) + Latin 'tensio' (tension, pressure)

Fun Fact

Orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop of at least 20 mmHg systolic or 10 mmHg diastolic within three minutes of standing—a major fall risk for the elderly.

Source: Cardiology and geriatric medicine standards

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