Low Blood Pressure (Low BP): Symptoms, Causes, & Treatment
Low blood pressure (Low bp), also known as hypotension, is a condition characterized by a blood pressure reading below 90 mmHg systolic or 60 mmHg diastolic. It can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, including dehydration, blood loss, or certain medications. Monitoring blood pressure regularly is crucial for both patients and healthcare providers to manage and treat hypotension effectively.
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Get A Second OpinionTypes of low blood pressure (Low BP)
- Orthostatic Hypotension : A sudden drop in blood pressure when standing, causing dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. Common triggers include dehydration, prolonged bed rest, and certain medications.
- Neurally Mediated Hypotension : A temporary blood pressure drop during prolonged standing or emotional stress, resulting from an autonomic nervous system malfunction. Symptoms include fainting, fatigue, and nausea.
- Postprandial Hypotension : Blood pressure decreases after meals due to increased blood flow to the stomach and intestines. Symptoms include dizziness, weakness, and fainting shortly after eating.
- Severe Hypotension : A life-threatening drop in blood pressure compromising vital organ function. Causes include massive blood loss, severe infection (septic shock), or severe allergic reaction (anaphylactic shock). Prompt medical intervention is necessary to prevent organ damage.
What are the Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure (Low BP)?
Low bp symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Dehydration
- Trouble concentrating
- Blurred vision
- Cold, clammy skin
- Depression
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Rapid heart rate
- Headache
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Book an AppointmentWhat causes low BP ( low blood pressure)?
- Dehydration : Inadequate fluid intake can lead to low BP.
- Pregnancy : Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause blood pressure to drop.
- Fear, stress, or pain : Emotional states can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure.
- Heart conditions : Heart failure, heart valve problems, and certain heart arrhythmias can lead to low blood pressure.
- Blood loss : Significant loss of blood due to injuries or internal bleeding can cause low BP.
- Age-related decline : Blood pressure naturally declines with age, which can lead to low blood pressure.
- Nerve problems : Certain nerve disorders, such as peripheral neuropathy, can cause low blood pressure.
How is low blood pressure or low BP treated?
- Increasing salt and fluid intake to expand blood volume.
- Wearing compression stockings to improve circulation.
- Gradual changes in posture to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.
- Adjusting medications that contribute to hypotension.
- Addressing underlying medical conditions, such as heart problems or hormonal imbalances.
- In severe cases, intravenous fluids or medications to raise blood pressure may be necessary.
When to visit a Doctor?
If you have hypertension, you must keep your blood pressure levels in check and see the doctor for routine checkups every six months. In case of any symptoms of severe hypertension, immediate medical assistance is recommended. For secondary hypertension, you will be prescribed regular medication to keep your BP levels in control.
