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Hypotension
from: Kyle BesserHypotension refers to an abnormally low blood pressure. Hypotension is the opposite of hypertension, which is high blood pressure. Low blood pressure would seem to be something to strive for, but low blood pressure can cause symptoms of dizziness and fainting. Severely low blood pressure can deprive the brain and other vital organs of oxygen and nutrients, leading to a life-threatening condition called shock.
Blood pressure varies from person to person. A blood pressure reading of 90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or less systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure reading) or 60 mm Hg or less diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) is generally considered low blood pressure.
The causes of low blood pressure can range from dehydration to problems with the way your brain signals your heart to pump blood. Low blood pressure is treatable, but it is important to find out what is causing the condition so that it can be properly treated.
For some people, low blood pressure can signal an underlying medical problem, especially when it drops suddenly or is accompanied by signs and symptoms such as:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting (syncope)
Lack of concentration
Blurred vision
Nausea
Cold, clammy, pale skin
Rapid, shallow breathing
Fatigue
Depression
Thirst
It is important to see your doctor if you experience any signs or symptoms of hypotension because they sometimes can point to a more serious problem. Even moderate low blood pressure can cause dizziness and weakness, but also fainting and a risk of injury from falls. Severely low blood pressure from any cause can deprive your body of enough oxygen to carry out its normal functions, leading to damage to your heart and brain. It can be helpful to keep a record of your symptoms, when they occur and what you were doing at the time.
In many instances, low blood pressure isn't serious. If you have consistently low readings but feel fine, your doctor is likely to monitor you during routine exams. Occasional dizziness or lightheadedness may be a relatively minor problem. It could be the result of mild dehydration from too much time in the sun or a hot tub, for example.
Depending on the reason for your low blood pressure, you may be able to take certain steps to help reduce or even prevent symptoms. Some suggestions include:
*Drink more water and less alcohol. Alcohol is dehydrating and can lower blood pressure, even if you drink in moderation. Water combats dehydration and increases blood volume.
*Follow a healthy diet. Get all the nutrients you need for good health by focusing on a variety of foods, including whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean chicken and fish. If your doctor suggests increasing your salt intake but you don't like a lot of salt on your food, try using natural soy sauce or adding dry soup mixes to dips and dressings.
*Go slowly when changing body positions. Before getting out of bed in the morning, breathe deeply for a few minutes and then slowly sit up before standing.
*Sleeping with the head of your bed slightly elevated can help fight the effects of gravity.
*If you begin to get symptoms while standing, cross your thighs in a scissors fashion and squeeze, or put one foot on a ledge or chair and lean as far forward as possible. This will encourage blood to flow from your legs to your heart.
*Eat small, low-carb meals. To help prevent blood pressure from dropping sharply after meals, eat small portions several times a day and limit high-carbohydrate foods such as potatoes, rice, pasta and bread.
*Drinking caffeinated coffee or tea with meals may temporarily raise blood pressure, but check with your doctor before increasing your caffeine intake because caffeine can cause other problems.
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