Warning Signs Of Orthostatic Intolerance

Confusion

Dysfunctions in the autonomic nervous system cause orthostatic intolerance. The autonomic nervous system has several important responsibilities. It helps monitor body temperature, digestion, heart rate, and basic brain functions. The autonomic nervous system establishes a relationship between the brain and several different parts of the body, like the heart, liver, skin and sweat glands. When the autonomic nervous system is adversely affected by underlying issues, cognitive functions could be vastly impacted as well. Mental clarity and acuity are compromised and as a result confusion and disorientation set in. Elderly individuals are more likely than their younger counterparts to experience disorientation and impaired thinking.

Fainting

Fainting, sometimes called syncope, is the process of temporarily losing consciousness. The fluctuation of blood pressure in an already decreased blood supply to the brain causes the individual to experience a brief blackout. Losing consciousness is a common symptom of orthostatic intolerance and has many triggers, including staying in an upright position for an extended period, being exposed to emotionally traumatizing and stress-inducing events (like seeing blood or something scary), being in an overly warm or crowded environment for a prolonged period, and insufficient fluid and salt intake. Being conscious of these triggers will reduce the likelihood of blacking out.