Idiopathic Orthostatic Hypotension: Causes, Symptoms, and Management Options

When you stand up and suddenly feel lightheaded, dizzy, or like you might pass out, it could be idiopathic orthostatic hypotension, a condition where blood pressure drops sharply upon standing without a clear underlying cause. Also known as primary orthostatic hypotension, it’s not caused by dehydration, medications, or heart disease—it just happens, often for no obvious reason.

This isn’t just about feeling a little woozy. orthostatic hypotension, the broader category of blood pressure drops when changing position can lead to falls, injuries, and reduced mobility, especially in older adults. The autonomic nervous system, the part of your body that controls automatic functions like heart rate and blood vessel tightening normally adjusts blood pressure when you stand. But in idiopathic cases, it fails to respond fast enough, leaving your brain temporarily starved of blood. It’s not rare—studies show it affects up to 30% of people over 70, and many more in their 50s and 60s without knowing why.

What makes it tricky is that symptoms often get mistaken for aging, stress, or just being out of shape. You might think you’re just tired, but if you consistently feel faint after standing, especially after meals or in hot rooms, it’s worth looking closer. Unlike secondary forms caused by diabetes or Parkinson’s, idiopathic orthostatic hypotension has no known root disease—so treatment focuses on managing the symptoms, not curing the cause. That means lifestyle tweaks, compression gear, hydration strategies, and sometimes medications that help your body hold onto blood pressure better.

You’ll find real-world advice in the posts below—from how certain blood pressure meds like Valsartan-Hydrochlorothiazide or Hyzaar can worsen dizziness, to how proper hydration and salt intake can make a measurable difference. There are also guides on how to recognize early signs, avoid dangerous falls, and work with your doctor to find the right balance between medication and natural support. This isn’t about quick fixes. It’s about understanding your body’s signals and making smart, daily choices to stay steady on your feet.