Using positive airway pressure to manage blood pressure issues in older adults

Hemodynamic Effects of Positive Airway Pressure to Treat Supine Hypertension and Improve Neurogenic Orthostatic Hypotension

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10986079

This study is looking at how using a CPAP machine, which helps with breathing during sleep, might lower high blood pressure that some older adults experience when lying down, and it hopes to make them feel better when they stand up during the day.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10986079 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) can help treat supine hypertension, a condition where blood pressure rises while lying down, which is common in older adults. The study aims to understand how CPAP can improve blood flow and reduce symptoms of orthostatic hypotension, where blood pressure drops upon standing. By applying CPAP, the researchers hope to create a similar effect to sleeping in a head-up position, potentially alleviating nighttime hypertension and its daytime consequences. Patients will be monitored to assess changes in blood pressure and related symptoms during the treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing supine hypertension and orthostatic hypotension, particularly those with impaired autonomic reflexes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have issues with blood pressure regulation or those without supine hypertension may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for managing blood pressure issues in older adults, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results using CPAP for similar hemodynamic effects, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.