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The Netherlands Journal of Medicine Feb 2014Orthostatic hypotension is common, especially in the elderly, and it is strongly associated with discomfort and falls. Physicians may sometimes prescribe compression... (Review)
Review
AIM
Orthostatic hypotension is common, especially in the elderly, and it is strongly associated with discomfort and falls. Physicians may sometimes prescribe compression therapy, but the beneficial effect of this treatment in orthostatic hypotension is unclear. The aim of this review was to summarise all available evidence on the effect of four different levels of compression therapy in the treatment of orthostatic hypotension: knee-length, thigh-length, full-length and abdominal compression only.
METHODS
A systematic search was performed in PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases.
RESULTS
A literature search identified 1232 reports; 11 publications were selected for inclusion in this review. The quality of studies was heterogenous and generally poor. Full length compression (lower limbs and abdomen) and compression of solely the abdomen were found to be superior to knee-length and thigh-length compression. Both significantly reduced the fall in systolic blood pressure after postural change. Symptoms of orthostatic hypotension experienced by patients were improved the most by full-length compression.
CONCLUSIONS
When other interventions fail to ameliorate symptoms, compression therapy can be considered. This review demonstrates that compression treatment should include the abdomen as this has the greatest beneficial effect. However, this review also displays the paucity of evidence for compression therapy for patients with orthostatic hypotension, and further investigation is certainly warranted.
Topics: Blood Pressure; Compression Bandages; Humans; Hypotension, Orthostatic; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 24659590
DOI: No ID Found -
JBI Evidence Synthesis Dec 2020The objective of this review was to summarize the best available evidence regarding the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to treat orthostatic...
OBJECTIVE
The objective of this review was to summarize the best available evidence regarding the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to treat orthostatic hypotension (OH) in elderly people and people with a neurological condition.
INTRODUCTION
Orthostatic hypotension is common in elderly people and people with a neurological condition and can interfere with or limit rehabilitation. Non-pharmacological interventions to treat OH could allow for longer and earlier mobilization, which is recommended in national clinical guidelines for rehabilitation in the acute or sub-acute phase following stroke or other neurological conditions.
INCLUSION CRITERIA
The review considered people aged 50 years and older, and people aged 18 years and elderly people with a neurological condition. Non-pharmacological interventions to treat OH included compression garments, neuromuscular stimulation, physical counter-maneuvers, aerobic or resistance exercises, sleeping with head tilted up, increasing fluid and salt intake, and timing and size of meals. The comparator was usual care, no intervention, pharmacological interventions, or other non-pharmacological interventions. Outcome measures included systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, heart rate, cerebral blood flow, observed/perceived symptoms, duration of standing or sitting in minutes, tolerance of therapy, functional ability, and adverse events/effects.
METHODS
Databases for published and unpublished studies available in English up to April 2018 with no lower date limit were searched. Critical appraisal was conducted using standardized instruments from JBI. Data were extracted using standardized tools designed for quantitative studies. Where appropriate, studies were included in a meta-analysis; otherwise, data were presented in a narrative form due to heterogeneity.
RESULTS
Forty-three studies - a combination of randomized controlled trials (n = 13), quasi-experimental studies (n = 28), a case control study (n = 1), and a case report (n = 1) - with 1069 participants were included. Meta-analyses of three interventions (resistance exercise, electrical stimulation, and lower limb compression bandaging) showed no significant effect of these interventions. Results from individual studies indicated physical maneuvers such as leg crossing, leg muscle pumping/contractions, and bending forward improved orthostatic hypotension. Abdominal compression improved OH. Sleeping with head up in combination with pharmacological treatment was more effective than sleeping with head up alone. Eating smaller, more frequent meals was effective. Drinking 480 mL of water increased blood pressure.
CONCLUSIONS
The review found mixed results for the effectiveness of non-pharmacological interventions to treat OH in people aged 50 years and older, and people with a neurological condition. There are several non-pharmacological interventions that may be effective in treating OH, but not all have resulted in clinically meaningful changes in outcome. Some may not be suitable for people with moderate to severe disability; therefore, it is important for clinicians to consider the patient's abilities and impairments when considering which non-pharmacological interventions to implement.
Topics: Activities of Daily Living; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Blood Pressure; Central Nervous System Diseases; Exercise; Humans; Hypotension, Orthostatic; Middle Aged; Posture
PubMed: 32773495
DOI: 10.11124/JBISRIR-D-18-00005 -
Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine 2022Physical counter pressure maneuvers (CPM) are movements that are recommended to delay or prevent syncope (fainting) by recruiting the skeletal muscle pump to augment... (Review)
Review
Physical counter pressure maneuvers (CPM) are movements that are recommended to delay or prevent syncope (fainting) by recruiting the skeletal muscle pump to augment cardiovascular control. However, these recommendations are largely based on theoretical benefit, with limited data evaluating the efficacy of CPM to prevent syncope in the real-world setting. We conducted a semi-systematic literature review and meta-analysis to assess CPM efficacy, identify literature gaps, and highlight future research needs. Articles were identified through a literature search (PubMed, April 2022) of peer-reviewed publications evaluating the use of counter pressure or other lower body maneuvers to prevent syncope. Two team members independently screened records for inclusion and extracted data. From 476 unique records identified by the search, 45 met inclusion criteria. Articles considered various syncopal conditions (vasovagal = 12, orthostatic hypotension = 8, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome = 1, familial dysautonomia = 2, spinal cord injury = 1, blood donation = 10, healthy controls = 11). Maneuvers assessed included hand gripping, leg fidgeting, stepping, tiptoeing, marching, calf raises, postural sway, tensing (upper, lower, whole body), leg crossing, squatting, "crash" position, and bending foreword. CPM were assessed in laboratory-based studies ( = 28), the community setting ( = 4), both laboratory and community settings ( = 3), and during blood donation ( = 10). CPM improved standing systolic blood pressure (+ 14.8 ± 0.6 mmHg, < 0.001) and heart rate (+ 1.4 ± 0.5 bpm, = 0.006), however, responses of total peripheral resistance, stroke volume, or cerebral blood flow were not widely documented. Most patients experienced symptom improvement following CPM use (laboratory: 60 ± 4%, community: 72 ± 9%). The most prominent barrier to employing CPM in daily living was the inability to recognize an impending faint. Patterns of postural sway may also recruit the skeletal muscle pump to enhance cardiovascular control, and its potential as a discrete, proactive CPM needs further evaluation. Physical CPM were successful in improving syncopal symptoms and producing cardiovascular responses that may bolster against syncope; however, practical limitations may restrict applicability for use in daily living.
PubMed: 36312294
DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1016420 -
Blood Pressure Jun 2019Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common and clinically important disorder. Published papers vary regarding the definitions of OH and methodologies of evaluation....
PURPOSE
Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a common and clinically important disorder. Published papers vary regarding the definitions of OH and methodologies of evaluation. Moreover, substantial gaps in the skills and knowledge required for assessment of OH have been reported by clinicians. We aimed to provide current information regarding the definition, classification and evaluation of OH.
METHODS
We performed a comprehensive search of medical databases, using the following keywords: "postural hypotension" or "orthostatic hypotension", combined with: "definition", "classification", "diagnosis", "evaluation" or "meaning". We selected for this review the most relevant recent publications and key papers in the field, published in the English language.
RESULTS
Current data regarding definitions, classification and the evaluation of OH are reviewed. The various aspects of OH assessment are extensively discussed. Considerable discrepancies exist between the published guidelines regarding the methodology of OH diagnosing. We propose an algorithm for OH evaluation and a standardized protocol for bedside determination of OH by healthcare providers.
CONCLUSIONS
Correct assessment of OH is essential for its accurate diagnosis. The methodology of OH evaluation has not been sufficiently standardized. We emphasize the clinical importance of the uniform investigation of OH, according to the current guidelines for OH definition and meaning.
Topics: Algorithms; Diagnostic Techniques and Procedures; Humans; Hypotension, Orthostatic; Point-of-Care Testing
PubMed: 30982364
DOI: 10.1080/08037051.2019.1604067 -
NeuroRehabilitation 2018Recent evidence suggests that autonomic nervous dysfunction may be one of many potential factors contributing to persisting post-concussion symptoms. (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Recent evidence suggests that autonomic nervous dysfunction may be one of many potential factors contributing to persisting post-concussion symptoms.
OBJECTIVE
This is the first systematic review to explore the impact of concussion on multiple aspects of autonomic nervous system functioning.
METHODS
The methods employed are in compliance with the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) and PRISMA standards. Embase, MEDLINE, PsychINFO, and Science Citation Index literature searches were performed using relevant indexing terms for articles published prior to the end of December 2016. Data extraction was performed by two independent groups, including study quality indicators to determine potential risk for bias according to the 4-tiered classification scheme of the AAN.
RESULTS
Thirty-six articles qualified for inclusion in the analysis. Only three studies (one Class II and two Class IV) did not identify anomalies in measures of ANS functioning in concussed populations.
CONCLUSIONS
The evidence supports the conclusion that it is likely that concussion causes autonomic nervous system anomalies. An awareness of this relationship increases our understanding of the physical impact of concussion, partially explains the overlap of concussion symptoms with other medical conditions, presents opportunities for further research, and has the potential to powerfully inform treatment decisions.
Topics: Autonomic Nervous System; Humans; Post-Concussion Syndrome
PubMed: 29660949
DOI: 10.3233/NRE-172298 -
Heart Rhythm Mar 2023Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a transient loss of consciousness that currently imposes a high burden on health care systems with limited evidence of the comparative... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Vasovagal syncope (VVS) is a transient loss of consciousness that currently imposes a high burden on health care systems with limited evidence of the comparative efficacy of available pharmacologic interventions. This study aims to compare all pharmacologic therapies suggested in randomized controlled trials (RCTs) through systematic review and network meta-analysis. A systematic search in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library was conducted to identify RCTs evaluating pharmacologic therapies for patients with VVS. The primary outcome was spontaneous VVS recurrence. The secondary outcome was a positive head-up tilt test (HUTT) after receiving intervention, regarded as a lower level of evidence. Pooled risk ratio (RR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated using random-effect network meta-analysis. Pairwise meta-analysis for comparison with placebo was also performed when applicable. The surface under the cumulative ranking curve analysis was conducted to rank the treatments for each outcome. Twenty-eight studies with 1744 patients allocated to different medications or placebo were included. Network meta-analysis of the reduction in the primary outcome showed efficacy for midodrine (RR 0.55; 95% CI 0.35-0.85) and fluoxetine (especially in patients with concomitant anxiety) (RR 0.36; 95% CI 0.16-0.84). In addition, midodrine and atomoxetine were superior to other treatment options, considering positive HUTT (RR 0.37; 95% CI 0.23-0.59; and RR 0.49; 95% CI 0.28-0.86, respectively). Overall, midodrine was the only agent shown to reduce spontaneous syncopal events. Fluoxetine also seems to be beneficial but should be studied further in RCTs. Our network meta-analysis did not find evidence of the efficacy of any other medication.
Topics: Humans; Fluoxetine; Midodrine; Syncope, Vasovagal; Network Meta-Analysis; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 36509319
DOI: 10.1016/j.hrthm.2022.12.010 -
Journal of Child Neurology Dec 2020Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome has been recognized for decades, but treatment is largely based on anecdotal experience and expert opinion. Pharmacologic...
PURPOSE
Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome has been recognized for decades, but treatment is largely based on anecdotal experience and expert opinion. Pharmacologic treatment is inconsistent and unstandardized. We did a systematic review to identify controlled studies from which informed treatment decisions can be made.
METHOD
Through a standard systematic review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, we identified all English-language studies of a medication treatment for postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome that included a comparison or control group and followed outcomes for at least 1 week of treatment.
RESULTS
A total of 626 studies were identified by the search criteria, and 8, involving a total of 499 patients, met the criteria. No studies were adequately similar to allow for meta-analysis. Of the identified 8 studies, 2 were randomized controlled trials and 4 had been subjected to peer review. In individual studies, there was some favorable effect with fludrocortisone, beta blockers, midodrine, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.
CONCLUSION
There is a paucity of high-quality data about effectiveness of medication in the treatment of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome. Nonetheless, 2 randomized trials and 6 other reports show some favorable effects of medication.
Topics: Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; Anti-Inflammatory Agents; Fludrocortisone; Humans; Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors; Treatment Outcome
PubMed: 32838632
DOI: 10.1177/0883073820948679 -
Age and Ageing Sep 2012orthostatic hypotension (OH) affects up to 30% of adults over 65 and frequently contributes to falls and syncopal episodes. Current guidelines suggest a wide range of... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
BACKGROUND
orthostatic hypotension (OH) affects up to 30% of adults over 65 and frequently contributes to falls and syncopal episodes. Current guidelines suggest a wide range of treatments, but systematic reviews of the evidence base for such recommendations are lacking.
METHODS
we performed a systematic review to assess the evidence for all non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions for OH. Our search included the following databases: MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL; and the Cochrane library. We searched grey literature and references from included studies and other reviews. We included randomised, placebo-controlled trials, which measured postural drop as an outcome. Study quality was assessed using pre-specified measures of bias.
RESULTS
overall, 36 trials (21 interventions) were included. We identified a heterogeneous population and a wide variety of study methods, precluding meta-analysis. Most trials were of poor quality with high risk of bias. Changes in postural drop and symptoms were frequently inconsistent. Compression bandages, indomethacin, oxilofrine, potassium chloride and yohimbine improved the postural drop. Several vasoactive drugs-including midodrine and pyridostigmine-improved the standing blood pressure, but overall worsened the postural drop.
CONCLUSIONS
many commonly recommended interventions for OH have a limited evidence base supporting their use. High quality, randomised, controlled trials are needed to underpin clinical practice for this condition.
Topics: Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Blood Pressure; Cardiovascular Agents; Compression Bandages; Female; Humans; Hypotension, Orthostatic; Male; Middle Aged; Treatment Outcome; Vasoconstrictor Agents
PubMed: 22591985
DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afs061 -
Autonomic Neuroscience : Basic &... Jan 2023Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a chronic health condition affecting mostly women of childbearing age, and significantly impacting their health and... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) is a chronic health condition affecting mostly women of childbearing age, and significantly impacting their health and quality of life. It is currently poorly understood with no approved licensed treatments. The aim of this systematic review was to contextualize the symptom burden of POTS, and review factors associated with this burden that may guide future treatments. The specific questions were (1) How does symptom burden in POTS compare to the burden in other long term conditions (LTCs), (2) Which factors are associated with POTS symptom burden, and (3) Which interventions show promise in reducing symptom burden in POTS.
DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT
Electronic databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, APA PsycArticles, OpenGrey) were searched from inception to January 2022 for observational studies reporting on the association between any biological, psychological or social factors and symptom burden, and randomized controlled trials reporting on interventions for symptom burden in adults with POTS. Two reviewers independently conducted eligibility screening, data extraction and quality assessment. A narrative synthesis was undertaken.
RESULTS/CONCLUSION
5159 entries were screened for eligibility. Twenty-nine studies were included (1372 participants with POTS of a total sample size of 2314, 17 High-, 12 Medium-quality), seventeen were observational and twelve were randomized controlled experimental and intervention trials. Overall methodological quality of the evidence was medium-high but heterogeneity was high and sample sizes modest, allowing moderately robust conclusions. Orthostatic symptom burden was higher in POTS than other LTCs. Serum activity against adrenergic α1 receptors, physical functioning, depression, catastrophizing, prolonged cognitive stress testing and anxiety were significantly associated with symptom burden in medium-high quality studies. Preliminary medium-high quality evidence from predominantly proof-of-concept (n = 11) studies and one 3-month 2 × 2 factorial design trial suggest that compression garments, propranolol, pyridostigmine, desmopressin, and bisoprolol may hold promise in reducing symptom burden. Directions for future research include investigating associated factors over time, the development of complex interventions which address both biological and psychosocial factors associated with symptom burden, and effectiveness trials of these interventions.
SIGNIFICANCE
POTS symptom burden is high, particularly in relation to orthostatic intolerance when compared to other long-term conditions (LTCs). Despite this burden, there are no effectiveness randomized controlled trials of treatment to reduce symptoms in POTS. This review provides a starting point to understanding researched biological and psychosocial factors associated with this burden. There was however inconsistency in the measurement of symptom burden, lowering the confidence of cross-study inferences. A coherent definition of POTS symptom range, severity and impact along with a validated and reliable POTS-specific instrument is currently lacking. A standardized questionnaire to assess POTS symptom burden as a core outcome measure will help clarify future research and clinical practice.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Female; Male; Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; Quality of Life; Self Report; Anxiety; Orthostatic Intolerance; Chronic Disease; Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
PubMed: 36525900
DOI: 10.1016/j.autneu.2022.103052 -
BMC Cardiovascular Disorders Dec 2019A number of published literature has reported that, physiologically, heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) to be... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
A number of published literature has reported that, physiologically, heart rate variability (HRV) in patients with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) to be greatly confounded by age, sex, race, physical fitness, and circadian rhythm. The purpose of this study was to compare between POTS patients versus healthy participants, in terms of heart rate (HR) and HRV after Head-Up tilt test (HUTT), by systematic review and meta-analysis of available published literature.
METHODS
MEDLINE (using PubMed interphase), EMBASE and SCOPUS were systematically searched for observational studies comparing POTS patients versus healthy patients, in terms of HR and HRV. HRV was grouped into Time and frequency domain outcome measurements. The time domain was measured as mean RR- interval and mean the square root of the mean of squares of successive R-R waves (rMSSD) in milliseconds. The frequency domain was measured as mean values of Low frequency power (LF), High frequency power (HF), LF/HF-ratio, LF-normalized units (LF(n.u)) and HF-normalized units (HF(n.u)). Demographic data, comorbidities, and mean values of HR, RR- interval, rMSSD, LF, HF, LF/HF-ratio, LF-(n.u) and H.F-n.u were extracted from each group and compared, by their mean differences as an overall outcome measure. Computer software, RevMan 5.3 was utilized, at a 95% significance level.
RESULTS
Twenty (20) eligible studies were found to report 717 POTS and 641 healthy participants. POTS group had a higher mean HR (p < 0.05), lower mean RR-Interval (p < 0.05), lower rMSSD (p < 0.05) than healthy participants. Furthermore, POTS group had lower mean HF(p > 0.05), lower mean LF(p > 0.05), and lower mean HF(n.u) (p > 0.05), higher LF/HF-Ratio (p > 0.05) and higher LF(n.u) (p > 0.05) as compared to healthy participants.
CONCLUSION
POTS patients have a higher HR than healthy patients after HUTT and lower HRV in terms of time domain measure but not in terms of frequency domain measure. HR and time domain analyses of HRV are more reliable than frequency domain analysis in differentiating POTS patients from the healthy participants. We call upon sensitivity and specificity studies.
Topics: Adolescent; Adult; Case-Control Studies; Child; Female; Heart Rate; Humans; Male; Middle Aged; Observational Studies as Topic; Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome; Posture; Tilt-Table Test; Time Factors; Young Adult
PubMed: 31888497
DOI: 10.1186/s12872-019-01298-y