A Comprehensive Guide to Offering Aid to Patients with Orthostatic Intolerance

 

As a pharmacy owner, it’s your responsibility to offer your patients the aid and guidance they need to manage their medical conditions. A common condition among patients is orthostatic intolerance, particularly in the elderly population. Orthostatic intolerance refers to the inability of the body to maintain blood pressure and heart rate in the upright position, causing dizziness and fainting. This blog post will be discussing five different aids that you can offer to support your patients with orthostatic intolerance.

By Lizzie Weakley

Compression Stockings

Wearing compression stockings can help improve blood flow and prevent pooling in the legs, reducing the risk of dizziness and fainting. As a pharmacy owner, you can offer a range of compression stockings to your patients, including knee-high, thigh-high, and waist-high. You can also assist patients in finding the correct size and compression level based on their individual needs.

 

Medications

 

 

There are various medications available that can help manage the symptoms of orthostatic intolerance. For example, fludrocortisone can help increase blood volume, while midodrine can help constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure. As a pharmacy owner, it’s important to educate your patients on the correct dosage and potential side effects of these medications.

 

Mobility Scooters

For patients with severe orthostatic intolerance, mobility scooters can be a great aid in maintaining mobility and independence. Mobility scooters are designed to provide a comfortable and stable ride, with adjustable seats and armrests. As a pharmacy owner, you can offer a range of mobility scooters to suit different needs and budgets.

 

Fluid and Salt Intake

Fluid and salt intake can play a crucial role in managing orthostatic intolerance. Encourage your patients to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water and low-sugar sports drinks, to maintain blood volume. You can also advise them to increase their salt intake, either through diet or supplements, to help retain fluids in the body.

 

Lifestyle Changes

Encouraging lifestyle changes can help manage orthostatic intolerance in the long term. For example, advise patients to avoid standing for long periods, particularly in hot environments. You can also recommend regular exercise, such as swimming or cycling, to improve cardiovascular health and reduce symptoms of orthostatic intolerance over time.

 

As a pharmacy owner, offering aid to your patients with orthostatic intolerance can greatly improve their quality of life. From compression stockings to mobility scooters, there are many aids available that can help manage the symptoms of this condition. By educating your patients on the correct use and potential side effects of these aids, you can help them better manage their condition and enjoy a more active and fulfilling life.

 

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