Timely detection and management of low blood pressure are important to prevent complications.
Blood pressure that is lower than normal is considered low blood pressure or hypotension. Blood pressure is the force exerted by the blood on the walls of the blood vessels during the pumping of blood from the heart. In an individual with low blood pressure, blood flows with very little force through the blood vessels. Low blood pressure in healthy individuals without any symptoms can occur temporarily due to dehydration or changes in the environment. Whereas, in other cases, it can indicate an underlying condition that requires attention.
Know Your Readings and Understand Low Blood Pressure Range
Your blood pressure constitutes two numbers. The top number indicates the systolic blood pressure (the pressure in your arteries while your heart beats) and the bottom number indicates the diastolic blood pressure (the pressure in your arteries in between the beats).
Optimal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mm Hg (systolic/diastolic). A blood pressure where the systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg and the diastolic blood pressure is less than 60 mm Hg is generally considered as low blood pressure.
What Causes Low Blood Pressure?
Low blood pressure can result from medical conditions such as heart diseases, endocrine disorders, pregnancy, severe infection or septicemia, dehydration, blood loss, and malnutrition.
It can also result from the usage of certain medications such as blood pressure medications, antidepressants, medications for Parkinson’s disease, and erectile dysfunction.
What are the Types of Low Blood Pressure?
Depending on the cause, low blood pressure is divided into different types:
Orthostatic or Postural Hypotension
It is a sudden drop in your blood pressure while standing up from a sitting or a lying down position.
Postprandial Hypotension
This drop in your blood pressure occurs one to two hours after having food. It is commonly seen in older adults.
Neurally Mediated Hypotension
Here the blood pressure drops after standing for long periods. It is common in young adults and children.
Multiple System Atrophy With Orthostatic Hypotension
It is a rare condition that is associated with damage to your nervous system which controls involuntary functions (autonomic nervous system) such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing, and digestion. It is also called Shy-Drager syndrome.
Low BP Range: Understanding Blood Pressure Levels
| Blood Pressure Range | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Below 90/60 mm Hg | Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) | This is considered low blood pressure. It can lead to dizziness, fainting, and other symptoms if blood flow to vital organs is compromised. |
| 90/60 mm Hg to 120/80 mm Hg | Normal Range | A healthy blood pressure range where the body is well-regulated. |
| 120/80 mm Hg to 139/89 mm Hg | Prehypertension | This is slightly above normal but not yet high blood pressure. Monitoring is recommended. |
| 140/90 mm Hg and above | High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) | When blood pressure reaches this level, it increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. |
Important Notes:
- Always consult with a healthcare provider if your blood pressure readings consistently fall below normal levels to prevent complications.
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure (Low BP)?
Low blood pressure can lead to various symptoms that affect daily life. Understanding these signs is essential for managing the condition and seeking timely treatment. (Source: hypotension)
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
It is a sense of unsteadiness or disorientation in space. It can affect your posture and balance, increasing the risk of falling. Low BP symptoms like dizziness can occur when you are moving, standing still, or lying down. While you are dizzy, you may feel lightheaded, woozy, nauseous, and unsteady.
Blurred Vision
Blurred vision is a common low BP symptom. In case of a temporary drop in your blood pressure, the vision gets blurred for a brief period and returns to normal once your blood pressure rises again.
Fatigue
Individuals with low BP symptoms, such as fatigue, tend to get tired or fatigued easily. This can hamper daily activities and negatively impact the quality of life.
Nausea
Low blood pressure is often accompanied by nausea or a sensation to vomit. It can be short-lived or prolonged. Nausea is often accompanied by symptoms such as headache, dizziness, or diarrhea.
Lack of Concentration
Poor concentration or an inability to focus on a task is a common symptom of low BP. Difficulty in concentrating is a normal periodic occurrence in your everyday life. With low blood pressure, you may experience it often and it can affect your everyday activities.
Fainting
Fainting is a common low blood pressure symptom when blood flow to the brain is reduced. It can happen suddenly and is often triggered by a rapid drop in blood pressure. Fainting increases the risk of injury, and recurring fainting episodes should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to identify underlying causes of low blood pressure.
Rapid, Shallow Breathing
Low blood pressure symptoms may include rapid, shallow breathing, as the body tries to compensate for reduced oxygen levels. When blood pressure drops, breathing may become faster and more shallow, especially during physical activity or emotional stress. If this symptom persists, it could indicate the need to address underlying causes of low blood pressure and improve circulation.
Cold, Clammy Skin:
Cold, clammy skin is another typical low blood pressure symptom resulting from poor circulation. When blood pressure falls, the body reduces blood flow to the skin, leaving it feeling cool and damp. This can be a sign of a more serious issue like shock, and if experienced alongside other low blood pressure symptoms, immediate medical attention is recommended.
Low BP Treatment: How to Manage Low Blood Pressure Effectively
Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can cause discomfort and even lead to more serious health issues if left untreated. While the condition often resolves on its own, treatment is necessary if symptoms become severe or persistent. Additionally, taking precautions for low blood pressure can help minimize symptoms and prevent complications. Here are some common approaches to managing low blood pressure:
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Stay well hydrated:
Staying hydrated is crucial for maintaining blood volume and preventing dehydration, a common cause of low blood pressure. Drink at least 7 to 8 glasses of water a day. Ensure you drink sufficient water daily, and consider electrolyte-rich fluids to support hydration effectively. Avoid sugary beverages and aerated drinks.
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Eat Small, Frequent Meals
Large meals can cause blood pressure to drop suddenly, especially after eating. To avoid this, try eating smaller meals more frequently. Foods rich in salt can also help raise blood pressure, but be sure to consult with your doctor before making dietary changes.
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Choose low carb meals:
Limit foods that are high in carbohydrates such as rice, pasta, and bread. It helps in preventing the drop in your blood pressure after meals.
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Pay attention to your body posture:
Avoid sudden movements, especially while standing up from a sitting or a lying down position. Try to move slowly and gently.
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Exercise regularly:
Aiming for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day will help in maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. It improves your heart rate and blood circulation.
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Monitoring Blood Pressure Regularly
Regular monitoring can help track how your blood pressure is responding to treatment. Use a home blood pressure monitor to keep track and share readings with your healthcare provider during follow-up visits.
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Consult Your Doctor for Medications
If lifestyle changes are not enough to manage your low blood pressure, it’s important to consult your doctor. They can assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatments or medications if necessary. Avoid self-prescribing any drugs, as this can lead to complications. Always follow your doctor’s advice for safe and effective care
When To See A Doctor
If your blood pressure is low and you do not experience any symptoms, then your doctor may just examine you during routine screenings.
If you experience signs and symptoms of extreme hypotension, seek emergency medical care. These symptoms include:
- Dizziness and/or confusion
- Cold, clammy, pale skin
- Shallow breathing
- Rapid, weak pulse
Don’t Have Time To Read?
- A blood pressure where the systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg and the diastolic blood pressure is less than 60 mm Hg is generally considered as low blood pressure.
- Low blood pressure can result from medical conditions such as heart diseases, endocrine disorders, and medications such as blood pressure medications and antidepressants.
- Depending on the cause, low BP is divided into 4 different types: postural, postprandial, neurally mediated, and multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension.
- Common low blood pressure symptoms include dizziness, blurred vision, fatigue, nausea, and lack of concentration.
- Lifestyle changes that help manage and prevent low blood pressure include dietary changes, having smaller meals, drinking more water, and exercising regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Dangerously Low Blood Sugar?
Dangerously low blood sugar, or severe hypoglycemia, occurs when levels drop below 54 mg/dL. Symptoms include confusion, weakness, and seizures. Causes include excess insulin or skipped meals. Immediate treatment with glucose or medical attention is essential.
What should we do when the BP is low?
To raise your blood pressure you can drink plenty of water, have more salt, eat smaller meals, have a balanced diet, and exercise regularly.
Can low blood pressure make you tired?
Yes! Low blood pressure can make you tired or fatigued easily. You may feel exhausted even while performing regular activities such as walking or climbing stairs.
How do you treat low blood pressure immediately?
Having food that is high in sodium or salt content can help in elevating your blood pressure immediately. Drinking caffeinated drinks can also help in a temporary elevation of blood pressure.
What should you eat if you have low blood pressure?
With low blood pressure, you can choose low-carb meals and follow the diet plan as advised by your doctor. Having small meals at multiple intervals also helps in maintaining healthy blood pressure.
What are the symptoms of low blood sugar without diabetes?
Low blood sugar symptoms without diabetes, also called non-diabetic hypoglycemia, include shakiness, dizziness, excessive hunger, sweating, irritability, fatigue, headache, blurred vision, and rapid heartbeat. Causes may include poor diet, alcohol consumption, or hormonal imbalances. Immediate carbohydrate intake helps.
Is coffee good for low blood pressure?
Having caffeinated beverages can improve low blood pressure temporarily.
Should I exercise with low blood pressure?
Exercise is beneficial for elevating your blood pressure. It helps in improving your blood flow and heart rate.
