soon after standing then resolved within a minute.
For people like them, these simple counter-maneuvers are worth a shot and may do the trick, according to experts who were not involved in the research.
“I like this approach,” says Dr. Stephen Juraschek, who studies blood pressure disorders at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, in Boston.
He did have some cautions — including the fact that this was a small study of young women only.
“I’d like to see a larger study of a more diverse group, including older adults,” Juraschek shares.
Tips for seniors
He notes that some older folks might find the maneuvers difficult, even the seated knee raises. And in general, Juraschek says, it’s wise for older adults with dizziness problems to take additional steps to prevent falls — like making sure rugs are secure and having grab bars in “critical places” in the home.
Dr. Sei Iwai, a professor at New York Medical College, in Valhalla, N.Y., made similar points.
“IOH is thought to be due to normal physiology, and in itself is not dangerous,” Iwai says.
However, he adds, when IOH does strike an older adult there are extra concerns, since they may be frail and/or be taking medications that worsen the blood pressure drop — which may increase their risk of falling and getting hurt.
Iwai says that people with milder IOH symptoms could try self-managing with these maneuvers. But, he adds, if the symptoms are frequent or severe, it’s “prudent” to see a health care professional rather than self-diagnosing.