Orthostatic hypotension in stroke patients

ABSTRACT

To assess the incidence of orthostatic hypotension [OH] in stroke patients undergoing rehabilitation and to determine clinical variables associated with it. Thirty patients with a first clinical stroke who underwent rehabilitation within one month of stroke onset were included in this study. They were 17 males and 13 females. Their age ranged from 49 to 68 years [mean +/- SD= 58.1 +/- 6.3]. Patients were subjected to full history taking, thorough clinical examination and investigations. Patients' blood pressure was measured in the supine position and on tilting at 90[0]. OH was defined as a drop in systolic blood pressure [SBP] of 20 mmHg or more. OH was present in 14 [46.7%] patients. Age was highly significantly associated [p<0.001] with OH and admission modified Barthel Index [MBI] score was significantly associated [p<0.05] with OH. There was a non-significant correlation with the site of stroke or the use of anti-hypertensives. OH was common in stroke patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation especially in older patients who have a lower functional status