Baroreflex function, haemodynamic responses to an orthostatic challenge, and falls in haemodialysis patients [SP400] (Abstract)

Abstract

Background: The prevalence of falls among Stage 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD-5) patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD) therapy ranges from 26.3% to 47%, and is considerably higher than in the general healthy population. In addition to traditional risk factors such as older age, frailty, comorbidity, and polypharmacy, these patients often present with dizziness and pre-syncopal events as a result of the combined effect of HD therapy and cardiovascular disease, which may contribute to an increased risk of falling. Particularly, it has been suggested that the dysregulation of blood pressure during orthostasis may play a role in the aetiology of falls in these patients. Purpose of the study: To compare the haemodynamic responses to a passive orthostatic challenge, as well as the baroreflex function, in HD patients with and without history of falls.