Understanding Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms, Causes, Risks, and Treatments

Understanding Low Blood Pressure Readings

Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers, such as 93/70 mm Hg. The top number is your systolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure in the blood vessels when the heart beats. The bottom number is your diastolic blood pressure, which measures the pressure when the heart is at rest between beats.

Normal Blood Pressure Range

Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. However, there is a range that is still considered within healthy limits:

• Systolic: 90-120 mm Hg
• Diastolic: 60-80 mm Hg

So a reading of 93/70 mm Hg would be on the lower end of normal, but is not cause for concern on its own. It simply means your heart is pumping efficiently and relaxed between beats to allow for proper blood flow.

What is Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, means that the force of blood pushing against your artery walls is lower than it should be. Generally, this means:

• Systolic pressure less than 90 mm Hg
• Diastolic pressure less than 60 mm Hg

So hypotension could be indicated by a reading such as 85/55 mm Hg for example. Some causes behind low blood pressure include:

Causes of Low Blood Pressure

• Pregnancy
• Heart conditions
• Endocrine problems
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Dehydration
• Severe infection
• Allergic reaction
• Use of certain medications

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Mildly low readings may not cause any symptoms initially. But chronically low blood pressure often leads to noticeable hypotension symptoms such as:

Common Symptoms

• Dizziness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Vision changes
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Blurry vision

Symptoms are often more apparent when going from a sitting to standing position. The shift in posture causes blood to pool in the legs rather than return to the heart properly.

Risks of Low Blood Pressure

If low blood pressure causes inadequate blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs, it can put you at risk for life-threatening complications such as:

• Heart failure
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• Syncope injuries from passing out

Those at highest risk include older adults, people with heart disease, pregnant women, and those taking medications that reduce blood pressure.

Treating Low Blood Pressure

The best course of treatment depends on the underlying cause behind your low readings. Your doctor will perform diagnostic tests to pinpoint any underlying conditions needing treatment. For example:

• Heart conditions may require medications or surgery
• Dehydration is treated with fluids and electrolytes
• Nutrient deficiencies are corrected through diet or supplements
• Medications may need adjusted by your doctor

Home Care Tips

In addition to medical treatment, you can help improve low blood pressure with lifestyle measures such as:

• Increasing fluid and salt intake
• Wearing compression stockings to prevent blood pooling in legs
• Raising the head of your bed to sleep
• Moving slowly into an upright position
• Avoiding hot baths or showers, which dilate blood vessels

It is also critical to avoid drugs and alcohol, get regular exercise, and use relaxation techniques to reduce hypotension symptoms.

When to See Your Doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience symptoms of low blood pressure persistently or suddenly. Immediate emergency care is needed for:

• Passing out (syncope)
• Severe dizziness
• Blurry vision
• Racing heartbeat

Staying on top of low blood pressure is key to preventing short and long term health issues down the road.

The Bottom Line

A blood pressure reading such as 93/70 mm Hg is on the lower end of normal but not necessarily dangerous on its own. Hypotension, or chronically low blood pressure below 90/60 mm Hg however can cause troubling symptoms and complications if left untreated.

Pay attention for signs of inadequate blood flow and low readings. Getting the proper medical care, medication adjustments, and home care tips in place helps minimize health risks from hypotension.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.