What it is
Many people improve over time, especially younger people.
Drinking more fluids, increasing salt if advised, compression clothing, avoiding triggers and gentle exercise help. Medicines may be used for some people.
Common signs
- Dizziness or fainting on standing
- A fast or pounding heartbeat
- Shaking and sweating
- Tiredness
- Problems concentrating (brain fog)
- Headaches
How it is usually diagnosed
- Measuring heart rate and blood pressure lying down and standing
- A tilt table test
- ECG and blood tests
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Standing test or tilt table results
- ECG results
- Cardiology or neurology letters
- A symptom diary
Questions to ask your doctor
- How much fluid and salt should I have?
- Which triggers should I avoid?
- Would medicine help me?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Chest pain, fainting during exercise, or severe breathlessness: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.