Q. I get low blood pressure after I eat a meal. It makes me a
little woozy. What can I do about it? A. This is a senior malady
called "postprandial hypotension." When you eat, blood pours
into your digestive system. To maintain your blood pressure,
your heart pumps more often and your blood vessels constrict.
But these compensatory mechanisms don't work for some people. To
help prevent postprandial hypotension, eat small portions
several times a day, and limit high-carbohydrate foods such as
potatoes, rice, pasta and bread. In many instances, low blood
pressure isn't serious. However, it is important to see your
doctor if you have hypotension symptoms, because they sometimes
can point to serious problems. Chronic low blood pressure may
increase the risk of Alzheimer's-type dementia in some older
adults. Q. I am a senior who is afraid that my infirmities make
me a target for dogs. Am I being paranoid? What should I do when
confronted by a dog? A. Seniors are bitten by dogs more than any
other group except chil