Attenuated peripheral vasoconstriction during an orthostatic challenge in older men

orthostatic hypotension is common in older men and associated with morbidity and mortality. During orthostatic challenges, older men maintain their blood pressure by an augmented increase in total peripheral resistance. Changes in the leg vascular bed contribute importantly to blood pressure regulation during orthostatic challenges, partly because of blood pooling in the legs. Little is known about the contribution of the leg vascular bed to the augmented increase in total peripheral resistance.