While high blood pressure often steals the spotlight for its dangers, such as stroke, heart disease, and kidney issues, low blood pressure—or hypotension—also deserves attention. Hypotension can lead to fainting, shock, and even heart complications if not addressed.

What is Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?

Normal blood pressure for a healthy individual is around 120/80 mmHg. A person is considered to have hypotension when their blood pressure falls below 90/60 mmHg.

Hypotension can also occur as orthostatic hypotension or postural hypotension, where blood pressure drops sharply when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing. This sudden drop is often due to impaired reflexes in the body or as a side effect of certain medications.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Low blood pressure may not always be harmful, but if accompanied by specific symptoms, further medical evaluation may be necessary. Common symptoms include:

• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating
• Nausea

In some cases, a significant drop in blood pressure can be life-threatening. Normally, the body compensates for falling blood pressure by increasing the heart rate or constricting blood vessels. Symptoms of hypotension appear when the body cannot adequately adjust to the pressure drop.

Causes of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)

Hypotension can arise from various factors, such as:

• Orthostatic hypotension: A sudden drop in blood pressure caused by standing up too quickly, when the body fails to increase blood flow to the brain.
• Low blood volume: Serious injuries or dehydration can reduce blood volume, leading to lower blood pressure.
• Heart and lung conditions: Issues such as an irregular heartbeat, heart failure, or improper lung function can lower blood pressure.
• Pregnancy: During pregnancy, blood vessels dilate rapidly, causing a temporary drop in blood pressure, typically resolving after childbirth.
• Medication use: Drugs for high blood pressure, heart failure, erectile dysfunction, depression, or neurological problems may induce hypotension.
• Blood loss: Significant blood loss from injuries or internal bleeding can result in low blood pressure.
• Nutritional deficiencies: Insufficient levels of vitamin B-12, folate, or iron can hinder red blood cell production, contributing to hypotension.

Treatment for Low Blood Pressure

For mild hypotension without severe symptoms, treatment is often unnecessary. However, if symptoms are present, the approach depends on the underlying cause. Possible treatments include:

• Adjusting medications: If medications are causing low blood pressure, a doctor may recommend changes. Avoid altering medications without medical guidance to prevent side effects.
• Increasing fluid intake: Staying hydrated boosts blood volume and stabilizes blood pressure.
• Consuming more salt: A higher sodium intake can help increase blood pressure levels.
• Avoiding certain positions: Avoid standing for extended periods or sitting with crossed legs, as these can exacerbate low blood pressure.
• Regular exercise: Engaging in 30 minutes of daily physical activity improves circulation and overall cardiovascular health.

While low blood pressure is typically not dangerous, frequent symptoms that disrupt daily life warrant medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice or use the Ai Care application’s consultation feature, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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