Low Blood Pressure Symptoms and Causes

When blood pressure drops below the normal range it is referred to medically as hypotension. Low blood pressure can occasionally result in dizziness, fainting and major health issues though it may not always be problematic. Vital organs may not receive enough blood when blood pressure falls too low. Blood pressure is crucial for supplying oxygen and nutrients to organs.

Comprehending the signs and causes of low blood pressure facilitates prompt diagnosis, suitable treatment and avoidance of complications.

What Does Low Blood Pressure Mean?

Systolic and diastolic pressure are the two numbers used to measure blood pressure. Readings that are less than 90/60 mmHg are typically regarded as low blood pressure. However, depending on factors like age, general fitness and health, what is deemed low may differ from person to person. While some people have naturally low blood pressure without any symptoms others may face serious discomfort and health risks.

Different Kinds of Low Blood Pressure

• Orthostatic hypotension: When you stand up after sitting or lying down your blood pressure may decrease. It frequently occurs in older adults and those who take specific medications.
• Postprandial hypotension: This occurs when blood pressure falls after eating particularly in older adults. It's because your digestive system receives more blood.
• Neurally mediated hypotension: This condition is more common in younger people and can be brought on by prolonged standing or stress.
• Severe hypotension: Blood loss infections, allergic reactions or heart problems can all contribute to this condition. It requires urgent medical attention.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Depending on the cause and severity of your low blood pressure symptoms may vary.

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• Fainting
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue and weakness
• Nausea:
• Difficulty to concentrate
• Cold clammy skin
• Shallow or rapid breathing

How Does Low Blood Pressure Occur?

Low blood pressure can be caused by a variety of factors including lifestyle choices and medical conditions.

• Dehydration: Reduced blood volume from insufficient fluids lowers blood pressure.

• Heart problems: Circulation can be disrupted by heart problems such as heart failure valve problems or a slow heart rate.
• Hormones: Low blood pressure can be caused by hormonal problems such as thyroid or adrenal disorders.
• Blood loss: Blood volume is reduced by bleeding from wounds, surgeries or internal problems. Blood infections can result in a drop in blood pressure.
• Allergic reactions: Severe allergic reactions may result in an abrupt drop in blood pressure.
• Nutritional issues: Low blood pressure and anemia can result from inadequate iron folate or vitamin B12.
• Certain medications such as diuretics, antidepressants, heart medications and blood pressure medications have the potential to excessively lower blood pressure.

How is a Diagnosis of Low Blood Pressure Made?

In order to diagnose low blood pressure doctors monitor your blood pressure over time and consider your symptoms. Additionally they may wish to conduct tests to determine the cause.

• Blood test
• An ECG or electrocardiogram
• A cardiac examination
• Hormone assessments

Your doctor can select the best course of action if you receive an accurate diagnosis.

How Do We Treat Low Blood Pressure?

The cause of your low blood pressure and the severity of your symptoms will determine the course of treatment.

• Drink more fluids: Maintaining blood volume and blood pressure requires staying hydrated.
• Modify your diet: Changing your diet may help elevate blood pressure but consult your doctor first.
• Modify medications: If your medications are causing low blood pressure, your doctor may decide to modify them.
• Compression stockings: These can help prevent blood clotting in your legs and enhance blood flow.
• Hypotension medications: Doctors may occasionally recommend medications to help control blood pressure.

Normalizing blood pressure can be achieved by treating the underlying cause such as anemia, hormone issues or heart disease.

Lifestyle Suggestions

• Stand up slow: To prevent abrupt drops in blood pressure, get up slowly from sitting or lying down.
• Eat smaller meals: Smaller meals can help avoid post-meal drops in blood pressure.
• Exercise: Moderate exercise can enhance heart health and circulation.
• Steer clear of heat: Hot weather can exacerbate low blood pressure.
• Put on compression stockings to improve blood flow and lessen lightheadedness.

When Can Low Blood Pressure Be Hazardous?

If low blood pressure results in:

• Horror or confusion
• A sore chest
• Breathlessness
• Unconsciousness

If you experience these symptoms seek medical attention immediately.

When Do You Need to See a Doctor?

If you frequently feel lightheaded, faint or exhausted for no apparent reason, consult a physician. Early screening can help identify the cause and avert major issues. If you have low blood pressure or related conditions, the doctors at Prakash Hospital can examine you and design a personalized treatment plan.