Orthostatic Hypotension – TheTole Treatment & Herbal Approach
Orthostatic Hypotension is a condition where blood pressure drops significantly when standing up, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. It is usually related to dysfunction in blood circulation, autonomic regulation, or fluid balance rather than structural heart problems.
Overview
- Orthostatic hypotension occurs when the body cannot maintain adequate blood pressure during posture changes, especially from sitting or lying to standing.
- Common symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, palpitations, and in severe cases, fainting.
- Triggers can include dehydration, prolonged bed rest, medications, or autonomic nervous system dysfunction.
- From a TCM perspective, this condition reflects Spleen Qi deficiency, Kidney Yang deficiency, and Liver Qi stagnation, leading to poor circulation, fluid imbalance, and insufficient Qi to support blood flow when changing posture.
TheTole Approach
Treatment Philosophy
- TheTole approach focuses on strengthening Spleen and Kidney Yang, harmonising Liver Qi, and improving Qi and Blood circulation.
- Treatment aims to stabilise blood pressure, reduce dizziness, enhance energy, and support autonomic regulation.
Acupuncture
- Acupuncture is used to support circulatory function, strengthen Yang energy, improve blood flow, and stabilise Qi.
- Treatment points are selected based on dominant symptoms such as dizziness, fatigue, palpitations, or fainting tendencies.
Herbal Remedies
- Customized herbal formulations are designed to:
- Strengthen Spleen Qi and Kidney Yang
- Regulate Liver Qi and relieve stagnation
- Support blood circulation and fluid metabolism
- Enhance systemic energy and autonomic stability
Herbal prescriptions are adjusted according to symptom severity, blood pressure patterns, and overall response.
Lifestyle & Diet
- Lifestyle guidance emphasizes gradual posture changes, hydration, balanced meals, and light exercise.
- Dietary recommendations include nutrient-rich whole foods, adequate salts if appropriate, and fluids to support circulation.
- Gentle daily movement helps improve vascular tone and maintain stable blood pressure.
Treatment Process
- Consultation with Dato’ Tole to assess blood pressure trends, dizziness, energy patterns, and constitution.
- Personalised acupuncture sessions to strengthen Yang energy, improve circulation, and stabilise blood pressure.
- Custom herbal prescriptions refined over time based on clinical response.
- Ongoing follow-up to maintain autonomic stability and reduce the risk of falls or fatigue.
Home Care Tips
- Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions.
- Maintain adequate hydration and electrolyte balance.
- Avoid sudden postural changes or prolonged standing.
- Engage in light movement daily to support circulation and energy.
Research & Evidence
- Orthostatic hypotension is recognized in modern medicine as a functional circulatory disorder that can result from autonomic dysfunction, dehydration, or medication side effects.
- TCM strategies strengthening Spleen and Kidney Yang, harmonising Liver Qi, and supporting Qi and Blood circulation align with stabilising blood pressure and improving energy and balance.
FAQs
Q: Can Orthostatic Hypotension be improved naturally?
A: Yes. Integrative therapy including acupuncture, herbal support, and lifestyle modification can reduce symptoms and improve blood pressure regulation.
Q: Why do people feel dizzy when standing quickly?
A: Sudden blood pressure drop reduces blood flow to the brain, causing lightheadedness or fainting.
Q: Can TheTole’s approach help prevent falls?
A: Yes. Stabilizing blood pressure and strengthening Qi improves energy, circulation, and postural stability.
