Understanding the Blood Pressure Reading 90 Over 54

Understanding Blood Pressure Readings

Blood pressure is an important vital sign that can give insight into the health of your heart, blood vessels and how efficiently blood circulates through your body. Its measured in two numbers, with the systolic pressure (the top number) indicating pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and diastolic pressure (bottom number) measuring pressure between heartbeats.

What Do The Numbers Mean?

According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood pressure reading for most healthy adults should be less than 120 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) for systolic pressure and less than 80 mm Hg for diastolic pressure. This is typically written as 120/80 mm Hg.

So in the blood pressure reading of 90 of 54, the 90 refers to the systolic pressure and the 54 refers to the diastolic pressure in mm Hg.

Is 90/54 Good or Bad?

In most cases, a blood pressure reading of 90/54 is considered a good, healthy reading. Having blood pressure on the lower end is associated with numerous health benefits and a reduced risk of problems.

However, for some individuals this reading may be too low and could potentially indicate an underlying medical condition that should be evaluated.

The Benefits of Lower Blood Pressure

Maintaining a lower blood pressure within a healthy range provides many advantages. Benefits of having a reading like 90 of 54 may include:

• Reduced risk of heart attack or stroke
• Decreased strain on the heart
• Better circulation and delivery of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body
• Lower likelihood of artery and organ damage over time
• Added protection for the brain against cognitive impairment

Plus, those with already high blood pressure can work with their doctor to implement lifestyle changes to try to naturally lower it closer to more optimal numbers like 90 over 54.

Contributing Lifestyle Factors

Some aspects of a person's lifestyle that may help support lower blood pressure include:

• Following an eating plan high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Reducing sodium intake to avoid fluid retention
• Maintaining a lean weight to avoid obesity
• Exercising regularly to keep the heart strong
• Managing stress levels through techniques like yoga and meditation
• Not smoking due to toxins that damage blood vessels

When Low Blood Pressure Causes Concern

While blood pressure in the lower range is healthy for most people, readings that are too low can sometimes indicate an underlying problem that may require treatment.

Symptoms of Concern

Some symptoms that may accompany numbers like 90 over 54 and be causes for concern include:

• Feeling lightheaded or dizzy, especially upon standing
• Fainting or nearly fainting
• Blurry vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue, lack of energy or weakness
• Rapid, shallow breathing
• Cold, clammy skin

Who's Most at Risk

While a blood pressure reading in the lower range is normal for most healthy people, it can indicate a problem for some groups including:

• Pregnant women
• Heart patients using medications
• Those who've lost a lot of blood from surgery, injury or internal bleeding
• People with nutritional deficiencies
• Some elderly patients who also experience symptoms

Those with adrenal gland disorders, heart conditions and nervous system damage or disorders may also be impacted.

Potential Causes

Some possible causes that could lead to readings like 90 over 54 being too low for an individual include:

• Dehydration
• Pregnancy
• Certain medications like diuretics or beta blockers
• Low blood sugar
• Nutrient deficiencies
• Heart problems or artery damage
• Endocrine disorders

If problematic symptoms accompany a reading this low, its important to follow up with a doctor to determine if an underlying condition requires treatment.

Tips for Managing Low Blood Pressure

If low numbers like 90 over 54 make you prone to symptoms like dizziness and fainting, there are some simple things you can do to help minimize problems:

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and electrolyte-containing drinks like coconut water to avoid dehydration and maintain blood volume.

Increase Salt Intake Cautiously

Consuming more sodium can encourage fluid retention, but talk to your doctor before significantly changing salt intake.

Wear Compression Stockings

Special stockings improve circulation to help blood return to the heart and brain.

Sit or Lie Down When Dizzy

If you feel lightheaded, sit or lie with feet elevated to stabilize your blood pressure.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity strengthens the heart and blood vessels.

Avoid Triggers

Steer clear of things that seem to make your blood pressure drop like hot tubs, saunas, hot weather and standing for long periods.

Implementing some of these easy tips can help minimize issues from low blood pressure. But if problems persist, your doctor may adjust medications or provide additional treatment recommendations.

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.