What does the term "orthostatic hypotension" refer to?

The term "orthostatic hypotension" specifically refers to a condition where there is a significant drop in blood pressure that occurs when a person stands up from a sitting or lying position. This drop in blood pressure can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting, as the body's mechanisms to regulate blood pressure may take a moment to adjust to the change in position.

Understanding this term is crucial, especially in healthcare settings, as it can indicate underlying health issues or be a side effect of medications. The other choices do not accurately describe this phenomenon. A rise in blood pressure when sitting down, a consistent high blood pressure when standing still, and fluctuations in heart rate during exercise do not align with the definition of orthostatic hypotension and represent other aspects of cardiovascular health instead.