SNP Shot: Genomic Insights

Orthostatic hypotension refers to a decrease in blood pressure when transitioning from a lying (supine) to a standing (upright) position. The term "orthostasis" signifies standing, thus the condition is characterized by low blood pressure (hypotension) triggered by standing up.

Upon standing, gravity pulls blood towards the lower part of the body. This shift reduces the blood available for the heart to pump (cardiac output), leading to a temporary drop in blood pressure. Typically, the body quickly adjusts to counteract gravity and maintain stable blood pressure and blood flow. This brief drop usually goes unnoticed. However, this transient orthostatic hypotension can cause dizziness and potentially lead to falls and injuries, especially in older adults.

Individuals with orthostatic hypotension struggle to stabilize their blood pressure, resulting in a sustained blood pressure drop within minutes of standing from a lying position. Many people with this condition are asymptomatic, and it may be discovered incidentally during medical evaluations. Diagnostically, orthostatic hypotension is defined as a drop of at least 20 mmHg in systolic blood pressure or 10 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure within 3 minutes of standing.

When symptoms of orthostatic hypotension are present, they generally stem from reduced blood flow (hypoperfusion) to tissues, especially the brain. Symptoms may include fatigue, confusion, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fainting spells (syncope). Less commonly, individuals may experience neck and shoulder pain (often called "coat hanger pain"), lower back pain, or weakness. During an episode, symptoms can be worsened by physical activity, high temperatures, consuming large meals, or prolonged standing.

In individuals with orthostatic hypotension, reduced blood flow to other organs can elevate the risk of serious health issues like heart attack or heart failure, atrial fibrillation (an irregular heart rhythm), stroke, or chronic kidney failure. Moreover, individuals are at risk of injury due to falls associated with fainting episodes.

Inheritance:

Orthostatic hypotension is generally a complex condition not directly inherited. However, having a close relative with orthostatic hypotension may increase an individual's susceptibility to developing the condition. When orthostatic hypotension is a manifestation of a genetic syndrome, its inheritance pattern corresponds to that of the underlying syndrome.