cardiovacular causes of falls in the elderly

Last reviewed 01/2018

These include:

Neurally mediated syndrome

  • vasovagal (neurocardiogenic) syncope
  • carotid sinus syndrome
  • postural hypotension: - secondary to intercurrent illness aggravated by chronic venous insufficiency - age associated autonomic neuropathy - drugs (diuretics, nitrates, tricyclic antidepressants, sedatives hypnotics and neuroleptics)

Cardiac abnormalities

  • arrhythmias: - Age associated idiopathic fibrosis of conducting tissue may cause sino-atrial exit block, sick sinus syndrome, paroxysmal AF or heart block.
  • structural abnormalities – valvular stenosis, hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, aortic dissection

Miscellaneous

  • pulmonary embolism
  • TIA
  • subclavial steel syndrome (1)

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