Mr. Luo, 86, has a history of hypertension for more than 20 years and has been taking antihypertensive drugs. In recent years, Mr. Luo often experienced dizziness symptoms, which were especially obvious after breakfast. In severe cases, he even experienced palpitation, sweating, and unsteady standing. He was finally diagnosed with postprandial hypotension.
When the systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg, the diastolic blood pressure is less than 60 mm Hg, and there are symptoms of insufficient blood supply such as dizziness, fatigue or chest tightness, it is called hypotension. Postprandial hypotension is a special case of hypotension, which refers to a decrease in systolic blood pressure of more than 20 mmHg within two hours after a meal compared to before a meal, and discomfort occurs.
In recent years, postprandial hypotension is more common in the elderly, especially in patients with hypertension, diabetes and various autonomic disorders. Common causes include: 1. The organ function declines in the elderly, and the ability to stabilize or regulate blood pressure decreases; 2. After meals, more blood flows to the digestive tract; 3. The use of antihypertensive drugs, especially diuretics and alpha blockers , antihypertensive drugs acting on the central nervous system are more likely to cause postprandial hypotension. For particularly persistent postprandial hypotension, alpha-glucosidase inhibitors may be considered as appropriate.
(from “Daily Business Daily”)