question-icon

What Causes Sudden Loss Of Balance In An Elderly Person?

default
Posted on Mon, 8 May 2017
Twitter Mon, 8 May 2017 Answered on
Twitter Tue, 30 May 2017 Last reviewed on
Question : When I get up to walk, I feel a lack of control, I feel like I might fall down. I reach out to touch something stationary for balance. I haven't fallen yet, but I feel like I may. I'm 89, feel great. It seem to come in last 4 days.?????
doctor
Answered by Dr. Ivo Ditah (2 hours later)
Brief Answer:
You might be having orthostatic hypotension!

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you so much for this query.

I have reviewed your information fully. This probably sounds like the body taking longer than usual to adjust to rapid changes in blood pressure. This occurs when you move from one position to another; especially from supine to upright. This causes a rapid drainage of blood down from the brain under gravity. This leaves the brain with low blood supply resulting in this feeling.

My advise is that you should avoid changing positions rapidly. Each time you do change positions, endeavor to stand still for a while before moving. If need be, always use supporting handles/rails so as to avoid falls. Above all, drink much fluids so as to always keep the blood pressure well controlled.

I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.
Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Ivo Ditah

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2002

Answered : 3984 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask a Geriatics
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
What Causes Sudden Loss Of Balance In An Elderly Person?

Brief Answer: You might be having orthostatic hypotension! Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you so much for this query. I have reviewed your information fully. This probably sounds like the body taking longer than usual to adjust to rapid changes in blood pressure. This occurs when you move from one position to another; especially from supine to upright. This causes a rapid drainage of blood down from the brain under gravity. This leaves the brain with low blood supply resulting in this feeling. My advise is that you should avoid changing positions rapidly. Each time you do change positions, endeavor to stand still for a while before moving. If need be, always use supporting handles/rails so as to avoid falls. Above all, drink much fluids so as to always keep the blood pressure well controlled. I hope this helps. I wish you well. Feel free to follow up with me if need be.