Hypotension
(Symptoms)
This article will help answer your questions about hypotension.
What is hypotension?
- Blood pressure is a measure of the force with which the heart pumps blood to the organs of the body.
- A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg):
Systolic pressure (upper number): the pressure exerted on the arteries each time the heart beats.
- Diastolic pressure (lower number): the pressure exerted on the arteries between heartbeats.
- There are two definitions of hypotension:
Absolute hypotension: resting blood pressure lower than 90/60 mmHg.
Orthostatic hypotension: blood pressure remains low for more than three minutes after changing position from sitting to standing. It is normal for blood pressure to drop briefly when changing position, but not for an extended period. The drop should be 20 mmHg or more in systolic pressure and 10 mmHg or more in diastolic pressure.
- What are the causes of hypotension?
- Hypotension can occur fora wide rangeof reasons, including:
- Orthostatic hypotension: occurs when standing up too quickly and the body cannot send a sufficient amount of blood to the brain.
- Central nervous system diseases: certain health conditions, such as Parkinson’sdisease, can affect how the nervous system controls blood pressure.
- Heavy or prolonged bleeding resulting from injuries or wounds.
- Dehydration caused by not drinking enough fluids or by the use of diuretics, whether as medications or as diuretic beverages.
- Life-threatening allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) or immune responses to serious infections can also lead to hypotension.
- Heart and lung diseases.
- Prescribed medications: do not stop taking any prescribed medication unless advised by your doctor.
- Alcoholorrecreationaldrugs.
Pregnancy: orthostatic hypotension may occur during the first and second trimesters. Bleeding or other pregnancy complications can also contribute to low blood pressure.
Extreme temperatures: excessive heat or excessive cold can affect blood pressure and worsen its effects.
- How to manage hypotension
- Tips that may help reduce your risk of developing hypotension.
- Treatment for hypotension usually begins by identifying its underlying cause. If the cause can be treated directly, blood pressure often improves on its own. However, if you experience symptoms of hypotension, you should follow your doctor’s advice for managing your condition, which may include the following:
- Follow a dietary plan: adhering to dietary recommendations—particularly regarding salt intake—can help prevent symptoms of hypotension.
- Take prescribed medications: following your doctor’s instructions for medication can help prevent symptoms and side effects associated with low blood pressure.
Wear compression clothes: tight-fitting stockings that apply pressure to your legs and feet can help push blood upward and improve circulation.
Change your body position slowly: avoid standing up too quickly, especially if you have orthostatic hypotension. This can help prevent dizziness and fainting spells.
- Sit down immediately: if you feel dizzy, sit down right away, as falling froma height can expose you to a risk of serious or even catastrophic injuries.
When should you see a doctor?
You should consult your doctor if you experience:
Frequent dizziness or fainting episodes, as these symptoms may occur with many health conditions, some of which some of which are serious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is hypotension a chronic condition?
No, it is a temporary health condition that occurs intermittently due to the causes mentioned above. By controlling and managing these causes appropriately under the supervision of your treating physician, you can, with God’s will, avoid future episodes of hypotension.
