ORTHOSTATIC INTOLERANCE Meaning and
Definition
-
Orthostatic intolerance refers to a medical condition characterized by the inability to tolerate an upright or vertical position, such as standing or sitting, for extended periods of time. It is primarily associated with a severe drop in blood pressure upon assuming an upright posture, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and sometimes even loss of consciousness.
This condition is often caused by an abnormal regulation of blood flow, specifically the autonomic nervous system's ability to adjust blood pressure and heart rate when changing positions. Normally, the body quickly compensates for the effects of gravity by constricting blood vessels and increasing heart rate to maintain adequate circulation to the brain. However, individuals with orthostatic intolerance have difficulty with this compensatory response, leading to inadequate blood supply to the brain.
Orthostatic intolerance can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to other medical conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), autonomic neuropathy, or chronic fatigue syndrome. Diagnosis is typically made through a series of tests, including observing blood pressure and heart rate changes during postural changes.
Treatment of orthostatic intolerance usually involves a combination of lifestyle modifications and medication. These may include increasing fluid and salt intake, performing regular physical exercise to improve cardiovascular health, wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in the lower extremities, and using medications that help regulate blood pressure and heart rate.
Overall, orthostatic intolerance is a condition that affects an individual's ability to tolerate an upright position due to poor regulation of blood flow, leading to symptoms of dizziness and fainting. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management can significantly improve the individual's quality of life.
Etymology of ORTHOSTATIC INTOLERANCE
The term "orthostatic intolerance" is derived from two components: "orthostatic" and "intolerance".
The word "orthostatic" comes from the combination of the Greek words "orthos" (ὀρθός), meaning "upright" or "straight", and "stasis" (στάσις), meaning "standing" or "stationary". In medical terms, "orthostatic" refers to any condition or phenomenon related to an individual's position from a sitting or lying position to an upright or standing position.
The word "intolerance" originates from the Latin word "intolerare", meaning "not to bear" or "not bearable". It refers to the inability or reduced ability of an individual to tolerate or withstand certain conditions, substances, or stimuli.
