Postural hypotension: its meaning and management in the elderly.

Aging is associated with a considerable number of alterations in function of the autonomic nervous system and with systems involved in the control of cardiovascular response to postural changes. However, these alterations themselves do not generally lead to symptomatic orthostatic hypotension. In combination with other factors, older patients can develop marked problems with orthostatic hypotension--notably, certain drug regimens, some degree of underlying heart failure, or such common geriatric illnesses as parkinsonism and diabetes. Treatment regimens must be designed to minimize side effects. While aggressive pharmacologic treatment may be helpful for young patients, among the elderly physical therapy or behavioral maneuvers may promote the most benefit with least risk. The simplest first step, however, is to focus on possible iatrogenic causes and eliminate them.