Hypotensive unawareness in Parkinson's disease-related autonomic dysfunction. Issue 2 (18th February 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Slavescu, Andreea; Byrne, Lisa; Lavan, Amanda; Briggs, Robert
• Is Part Of: Journal of hypertension. Volume 41:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 362
• Page End: 364
• Publication Date: 2023-02-18
• Subjects: falls -- orthostatic hypotension -- Parkinson's disease; Hypertension -- Periodicals; Hypertension -- Periodicals; 616.132005
• DOI: 10.1097/HJH.0000000000003329
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-5598

Abstract

Abstract : This case demonstrates how orthostatic hypotension in the absence of typical symptoms of light-headedness/dizziness when changing posture, can contribute to the burden of falls in Parkinson's disease. At least one-third of people with severe orthostatic hypotension do not report typical symptoms, and this figure appears to be higher in patients with Parkinson's disease. This is important clinically as it can increase the difficulty in ascribing falls to orthostatic hypotension, especially given the other competing reasons in Parkinson's disease and orthostatic hypotension symptoms can act as a prompt for the patient to act to prevent falls-related injuries. There is a clinical requirement, therefore, to screen for and manage orthostatic hypotension in patients with Parkinson's disease to prevent falls, even in those who do not report typical symptoms.