Low blood pressure is also known as hypotension. Many issues can cause low blood pressure. And hypotension can affect people of any age and background, depending on why it happens. The heart pumps blood around the body, supplying oxygen and other nutrients. Blood pressure refers to the force of blood on the artery walls as heart pumps blood around the body. low blood pressure, flows through the veins and arteries with too little force. It read below 90/60 mm Hg while normal blood pressure is above that, up to 120/80 mm Hg. Treatment varies depending on the cause.
For some people it does not show symptoms, which is one of the reasons many people are not aware that they have it. While others see symptoms. Is is also common among older people. However, changes in posture can cause blood pressure to drop, for instance, standing from sitting position or after lying down might cause someone to feel dizzy or faint. This is called postural hypotension or orthostatic hypotension.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure can have various causes, ranging from harmless to serious. Here are some common ones:
Dehydration
Possible causes of low blood pressure or hypotension, is dehydration. This occur when the body doesn’t have enough water, then the blood decrease. Drinking more water may help.
Pregnancy
During pregnancy, blood pressure naturally drops due to hormonal changes. And returns back to pre-pregnancy level after giving birth. Orthostatic hypotension is possible in the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Bleeding or other complications of pregnancy can also cause low blood pressure.
Nutrient Deficiencies
Deficiency in vitamin B12 or folic acid can contribute to low blood pressure. Not getting enough of it prevent the body from producing right blood volume and also cause anemia which can lead to lo blood pressure.
Alcohol or Recreational Drugs
Recreational drugs can lower blood pressure, also can alcohol. Excessive consumption of alcohol and recreational drugs can slow down heart rate and blood pressure. This is why you should always include these when you tell your healthcare provider the medications you are taking.
Medications
Hypotension may occur while using some medications that treat high blood pressure, heart issue, erectile dysfunction, neurological problems, depression and more. Certain herbal supplements, vitamins or home remedies can also lower your blood pressure.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Some conditions, such as irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), diabetes, pulmonary embolism (PE), collapsed lung, immune reactions to severe infections (sepsis) and anemia, can also cause low blood pressure.
Genetics
Low blood pressure may be genetic. Individual whose parents have hypotension have tendency of developing the condition
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded.
- Fainting or passing out (syncope).
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Distort or blurry vision.
- Shallow breathing or having a fast heart rate
- Fatigue or weakness..
- Confusion or trouble concentration.
- Agitation or other unusual changes in behavior.
What to Do If Your Blood Pressure is Low
The first thing is to consult a doctor. To determine the underlying cause, adjust the dosage of an existing drug and recommend medications to increase blood pressure. However, here are some tips to improve your pressure to normal
- Tests your blood and urine for any potential problems, like: Diabetes. Vitamin deficiencies. Thyroid or hormone problems. Low iron levels (anemia). This is to find the underlying cause and correct it. Treatments can range from simple IV fluids to antibiotics to surgery or even a heart transplant. Depending on the cause of your hypotension, you may feel better as you receive treatment or it might take longer.
- Drinking more water throughout the day. Aim for eight glasses per day.
- Avoid alcohol, which can cause dehydration
- Add salt to your diet
- Wearing compression socks that extend to the thighs or waist
- Moving the legs to stimulate blood flow before getting out of bed
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can support your overall health and potentially improve blood pressure.
This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is important to go for diagnosis and treatment if you suspect you have low blood pressure. By taking care of yourself, you can keep your pressure in check and live a healthy life.
