The cases of hypertension or high blood pressure are often emphasised upon, as they contribute to stroke and heart attack.
Much like that, low blood or hypotension can also cause severe health issues if left untreated.
Our blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day depending on the activity we perform.
But a sudden drop in the level of blood pressure to an extremely low level can lead to dizziness and fainting. In severe cases, low blood pressure can be life-threatening.
Reduction in the blood pressure level can be caused due to genetic reasons or pregnancy or dehydration. If you often suffer from the issue of low blood pressure you must consult your doctor to know about the underlying cause.
What is considered low blood pressure?
The blood pressure level is evaluated on the basis of two numbers displayed on the blood pressure monitoring machine- systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number). The systolic number refers to the pressure of the blood when the heart is contracting while the diastolic depicts the pressure when the heart muscles relax. The blood pressure level is always measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg). The pressure level is categorised like:
- Low blood pressure: Systolic lower than 90 mm Hg or diastolic less than 60 mm Hg.
- Normal: Systolic less than 120 and diastolic less than 80 mm Hg.
- Elevated blood pressure: Systolic above 120 mm Hg or diastolic above 80 mm Hg.
You need to take immediate measures to bring your blood pressure level back to normal in case it is low. For that, first you need to identify the symptoms of low blood pressure, which are as follows.
Some symptoms of low blood pressure
1. Weakness
Low blood pressure may make you feel weak and tired. You may not have the strength to even walk two-three steps properly without support in case of a sudden drop in the blood pressure level.
2. Dizziness and fainting
Dizziness is a typical symptom of low blood pressure. If the pressure is too low, the person may even faint.
3. Dehydration
There is a close connection between low blood pressure and dehydration. When the blood pressure level drops, you may feel more parched.
4. Trouble concentrating and blurred vision
Inadequate flow of blood pressure to the body’s organs can also make it difficult to concentrate. You may not be able to see the objects placed close to you clearly or focus on the work at hand.
5. Cold skin and rapid breathing
Low blood pressure can lead to shock which may turn your body cold and skin sweaty. Even your breathing rate would increase and your pulse will become weak. If you notice this symptom you need to seek immediate medical help.
Measures you can take at home
If you regularly suffer from the issue of low blood pressure consult your doctor. He/she may evaluate the cause of it and will prescribe medication accordingly. Few things that you can do at home when suffering from hypotension are:
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid alcohol
- Eat healthy and sodium-rich foods
- Drinking tomato juice regularly
- Move your legs before getting out of bed to stimulate blood flow
When to call the doctor
If left unattended, low blood pressure can lead to severe health issues and even turn fatal. You must seek immediate medication attention if you witness any of the below-mentioned symptoms:
- Rashes
- Congestion
- Breathlessness
- Dizziness, or confusion
- Swelling of the mouth, tongue, throat, or lips
- Trouble swallowing
- Shivering
