Cognition and hopelessness in association with subsyndromal orthostatic hypotension.

Background: The move from lying to standing is typically associated with a variety of physiological and neurohumoral changes, most especially a slight increase in systolic blood pressure (SBP). Decreased efficacy of the various mechanisms that control orthostatic blood pressure (BP) regulation may result in lightheadedness, dizziness, syncope, and cerebral hypoperfusion. The lack of effective orthostatic BP regulation is a symptom for various problems, including fatigue, depression, anxiety, and reduced attention.

Methods: This study examined men and women (N = 74) who were aged 30-75 years and asymptomatic for clinical orthostatic hypotension.

Results: Relatively poor BP regulation in response to orthostasis was associated with decreased verbal memory, decreased concentration, and higher hopelessness scores.

Conclusions: Individuals who exhibited less effective SBP regulation even to a subsyndromal degree in response to an orthostatic challenge may be at increased risk for cognitive and affective problems. The relationship between orthostatic BP regulation is best described as curvilinear.