What Is Considered Low Blood Pressure? Hypotension Symptoms and Treatments

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

Blood pressure is a measure of the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries. It is recorded as two numbers - the systolic pressure (as the heart beats) over the diastolic pressure (as the heart relaxes between beats).

Normal blood pressure is considered less than 120 mmHg systolic and less than 80 mmHg diastolic. This is abbreviated as 120/80 mmHg.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is diagnosed when blood pressure readings are consistently 130/80 mmHg or above. Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when readings fall below 90/60 mmHg.

Categories of Low Blood Pressure

There are different categories used to classify low blood pressure:

• Normal: 90-100/60-70 mmHg
• Mild hypotension: 85-89/55-59 mmHg
• Moderate hypotension: 80-84/50-54 mmHg
• Severe hypotension: Below 80/below 50 mmHg

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?

Some common causes of low blood pressure include:

• Pregnancy - blood vessels widen during pregnancy to support the baby
• Medications - diuretics, beta blockers, antidepressants
• Endocrine problems - diabetes, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism
• Heart conditions - heart attack, heart failure, valvular disorders
• Dehydration - from diarrhea, vomiting, excessive sweating
• Sepsis - widespread infection in the body
• Nutritional deficiencies - malnutrition, vitamin B12 deficiency
• Autonomic dysfunction - Parkinson's disease, amyloidosis

Low blood pressure can also run in families. Some people may just naturally have lower baseline blood pressure readings.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Many people with mild hypotension do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms are more likely to occur with sudden drops in blood pressure or very low readings under 85/55 mmHg.

Possible symptoms of low blood pressure include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Lack of concentration
• Blurry vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Palpitations

Risks of Low Blood Pressure

While not inherently dangerous, very low blood pressure can potentially lead to medical complications in some cases. Possible risks include:

• Falls - Drop in blood pressure on standing can cause dizziness and fainting, leading to injuries from falls.
• Organ damage - With severe hypotension, vital organs like the brain, heart and kidneys may not get enough blood flow and oxygen.
• Heart disease - Those with sustained low blood pressure are more prone to coronary heart disease.
• Cognitive issues - Elderly people with hypotension have higher risks of dementia and cognitive decline.

Treating Low Blood Pressure

Treatment depends on the suspected cause of low blood pressure. Several options may include:

Dietary Changes

Increasing fluid and salt intake can help increase blood volume and raise blood pressure. Consuming small, frequent meals can also keep pressure more stable.

Compression Garments

Wearing compression stockings or an abdominal binder puts gentle pressure on the legs or abdomen. This can limit blood pooling and keep blood pressure from dropping.

Raising the Head

Sleeping with the head slightly elevated and moving slowly from lying to standing can help prevent pressure drops.

Medications

Medications that narrow blood vessels like ephedrine, midodrine, or fludrocortisone can raise blood pressure. Stopping medications that lower pressure may also help.

Treating Underlying Conditions

Correcting issues like dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, endocrine disorders, or heart conditions may resolve hypotension. This should be done under medical supervision.

Living with Low Blood Pressure

Those diagnosed with chronic low blood pressure can take steps to minimize symptoms and complications:

Monitor Blood Pressure

Track home blood pressure readings to determine average pressure and response to treatments.

Increase Fluids and Sodium

Stay well-hydrated and consume adequate sodium to support blood volume unless advised otherwise by a doctor.

Move Slowly

Make changes in position gradually. Sit on the edge of the bed before standing up. Avoid sudden movements that can cause pressure drops.

Leg Exercises

Simple leg exercises while sitting can constrict blood vessels in the legs and keep blood from pooling.

Eat Smaller Meals

Have several small meals throughout the day instead of a few large ones. This prevents blood being diverted to the gut.

Supplements

Some supplements like salt tablets, electrolytes, glucose tablets, caffeine, and vitamin B12 may help boost low blood pressure.

Stay Active

Regular exercise can help improve heart function and blood flow. But limit intense workouts that may lower pressure rapidly.

When to See a Doctor

It's important to see a doctor for low blood pressure if you experience:

• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Fatigue, confusion, lack of concentration
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations
• Persistent hypotension below 90/60 mmHg
• Symptoms interfering with daily living

Getting an accurate diagnosis and proper treatment can help minimize symptoms and prevent potential complications.

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.