The temporary lowering of blood pressure usually suddenly due to standing is called?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Orthostatic hypotension
• C. Postural tachycardia
• D. Syncope

Answer: (B)

When you stand, gravity pulls blood into the legs and the body normally tightens blood vessels to keep blood pressure stable. If that adjustment is slow or inadequate, blood pressure drops briefly and you may feel dizzy or lightheaded. This temporary drop in blood pressure upon standing is called orthostatic hypotension. Hypertension is high blood pressure, so it’s not describing a drop. Postural tachycardia involves a rapid heart rate on standing, with or without a significant BP drop, so it’s not the exact description. Syncope means fainting, which can result from orthostatic hypotension but is not the defining term itself.