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What Causes Fluctuating BP Readings In An Elderly Person?
My father, 84 yrs old, suffers from dramatic swings in blood pressure. When he sits or lies on the bed, bp is 110/76. When he stands for less than 3 minutes, bp drops to 90/55. He does not like to drink much fluids, very stubborn, he is not eating enough, he is very weak.
What medications can he take?
What medications can he take?
Thu, 30 Nov 2017
Hello,
Thank you for your query.
As one's body ages, the compensatory mechanisms which take place in our body all the time also become weak. This is the process of aging.
However if your father doesn't have any symptoms like faiting, sweating or dizziness while changing positions, it is unlikely to be a cause of concern.
His weakness could be due to depression or he feels his time is running out.
I suggest you talk to him and visit your doctor to have a general checkup and understanding of his current condition.
- blood tests (complete blood count, renal and kidney function tests)
Based on clinical examination, further tests, if necessary
Medications may help but not always. Talking to him is best. Maybe he wants something else..
A change of scene may help.
Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is anything I can help you with.
Wish you both good health
Thank you for your query.
As one's body ages, the compensatory mechanisms which take place in our body all the time also become weak. This is the process of aging.
However if your father doesn't have any symptoms like faiting, sweating or dizziness while changing positions, it is unlikely to be a cause of concern.
His weakness could be due to depression or he feels his time is running out.
I suggest you talk to him and visit your doctor to have a general checkup and understanding of his current condition.
- blood tests (complete blood count, renal and kidney function tests)
Based on clinical examination, further tests, if necessary
Medications may help but not always. Talking to him is best. Maybe he wants something else..
A change of scene may help.
Hope this helps. Please let me know if there is anything I can help you with.
Wish you both good health
I find this answer helpful
Hi there
After going through your query I understand your concern
I would like to tell you that change in blood pressure with change in posture ( front lying to standing) is a feature of Orthostatic Hypotension or postural hypotension that can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Orthostatic Hypotension can be mild that lasts for few minutes but long standing orthostatic hypotension can be a sign of more serious underlying disease.
There are various cause of orthostatic hypotension like dehydration, heart problems, endocrine problem, nervous system disorder etc. which needs an evaluation for proper management.
Kindly consult a Physician for physical and diagnostic evaluation and further management.
Hope to have been helpful.
Kind Regards
Dr. Navneet Bansal
After going through your query I understand your concern
I would like to tell you that change in blood pressure with change in posture ( front lying to standing) is a feature of Orthostatic Hypotension or postural hypotension that can make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. Orthostatic Hypotension can be mild that lasts for few minutes but long standing orthostatic hypotension can be a sign of more serious underlying disease.
There are various cause of orthostatic hypotension like dehydration, heart problems, endocrine problem, nervous system disorder etc. which needs an evaluation for proper management.
Kindly consult a Physician for physical and diagnostic evaluation and further management.
Hope to have been helpful.
Kind Regards
Dr. Navneet Bansal
I find this answer helpful
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