Hypotension

Doctors define low blood pressure, or hypotension, as readings that drop below 90/60 mmHg. High blood pressure gets more attention, but its lesser-known counterpart can be just as serious. If you have sensitive blood pressure, even a small drop in blood pressure could make you feel dizzy or faint.

Age makes hypotension more common among older adults. Only a small percentage of 50-year-olds experience orthostatic hypotension (blood pressure drops when standing) but this number jumps a lot in people above 70. Your blood pressure should ideally stay between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg. Readings below this range need medical attention.

Several factors can trigger hypotension. These range from intense workouts and heat exposure to more complex issues like anaemia, vitamin B12 deficiency, heart conditions or endocrine disorders. Blood pressure that drops by a lot can lead to shock, which requires immediate medical care. Knowledge about different types of hypotension, early warning signs, and treatment options helps people manage this condition better.

What is Hypotension?

Hypotension exists as a physiological state, not a disease. It measures the force of blood pushing against artery walls. Blood pressure readings usually fall below 90/60 mm Hg.

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, often goes unnoticed in many people. The condition becomes a concern when symptoms start showing up or blood pressure suddenly drops.

Types of Hypotension

Four main types affect different groups of people:

• Orthostatic hypotension: Blood pressure drops suddenly when standing up. This generally affects people over 65
• Postprandial hypotension: Shows up 1-2 hours after eating, particularly in older adults
• Neurally mediated hypotension: Young adults experience this after standing for long periods
• Multiple system atrophy: A rare condition that affects the autonomic nervous system

Symptoms of Hypotension

The following are some common hypotension symptoms: 

• Dizziness and lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Confusion
• Nausea
• Heart palpitations

These symptoms typically appear when decreased pumping pressure fails to send enough oxygen to vital organs.

Causes of Hypotension

Several factors can trigger low blood pressure like: 

• Pregnancy
• Heart conditions
• Hormone problems
• Dehydration
• Blood loss
• Severe infections
• Allergic reactions
• Nutritional deficiencies

Risk Factors

Age presents the biggest concern. Other risk factors include:

• Medications
• Specific diseases like Parkinson's and diabetes
• Alcohol or drug use

Complications of Hypotension

Low blood pressure can lead to serious problems. These range from:

• Falls and injuries 
• Oxygen deprivation in vital organs, which might result in shock
• Low blood pressure over a long time can damage the heart, brain, and kidneys
• Trouble concentrating and problems with memory

Diagnosis 

Doctors need to evaluate your blood pressure to determine if it falls into the low range. 

Your doctor will first perform a blood pressure test to check if your reading is below 90/60 mm Hg. A review of your medical history and physical examination might follow. Beyond the simple test, you may need additional diagnostic tools:

• Blood tests to check for anaemia, diabetes, or vitamin deficiencies
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) to monitor heart activity
• Tilt table test to see how your body responds to position changes
• Echocardiogram to assess your heart's blood flow

Hypotension Treatments

Treatment isn't always needed. Your doctor might suggest these simple lifestyle changes:

• Increasing salt intake (after medical consultation)
• Drinking more water to prevent dehydration
• Wearing compression stockings to improve circulation
• Changing your sitting or standing positions
• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Some cases might require medications 

When to See a Doctor

You should seek medical attention if you experience repeated episodes of:

• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Confusion
• Blurred vision
• General weakness

Emergency services should be called right away if you notice signs of shock, such as cold, sweaty skin, rapid breathing, or a weak pulse.

Conclusion

Low blood pressure knowledge enables people to take better control of their health. People often pay more attention to high blood pressure, but low blood pressure deserves equal focus as people grow older. While some people function well with readings below 90/60 mm Hg, while others struggle with symptoms that disrupt their daily activities.

You need to notice warning signs quickly to get help sooner. faster. Do not overlook signs such as feeling dizzy, passing out or having blurry vision. These need a doctor's care. Many situations improve with simple lifestyle adjustments. Simple changes make much of a difference - staying hydrated, getting enough salt (with your doctor's approval), and taking your time when standing up.

Hypotension affects everyone in unique ways. A solution that helps one person might not work for someone else. Medical guidance becomes crucial, especially when you have other health conditions or are in your senior years. Most people can handle this condition well and maintain their quality of life with proper understanding and quick action.

FAQs

1. What is the main reason for hypotension?

Low blood pressure usually stems from several factors. These include:

• A mother's increased blood requirements during pregnancy
• Heart conditions that affect normal blood flow
• Dehydration that leads to reduced blood volume
• Endocrine disorders like diabetes or thyroid disease
• Severe infections that affect blood pressure regulation
• Blood loss from injuries

2. Can low blood pressure cause a stroke?

In stark comparison to this common belief, research shows it can. Studies reveal that people with chronic low blood pressure face higher stroke risks. Research data shows that you have double the risk of experiencing an ischemic stroke with orthostatic hypotension. On top of that, it may increase complications after a stroke.

3. Can stress cause low blood pressure?

Yes, it can. Your emotional stress might trigger hypotension, especially when you have autonomic failure. This occurs through hyperventilation, which can substantially lower blood pressure. Your blood vessels dilate as stress-induced mild hyperventilation reduces carbon dioxide levels.

4. Does low blood pressure make you tired?

The answer is yes. Fatigue stands as one of hypotension's most common symptoms. Your vital organs don't get enough blood flow at the time your blood pressure drops, which causes persistent tiredness and low energy levels.

5. Can hypotension cause dizziness?

Dizziness commonly occurs with low blood pressure. Your brain receives inadequate blood supply temporarily, especially when you have position changes. Most people notice dizziness as their first sign of hypotension.

CARE Medical Team