Low bloodpressure
- Article
- 2021-02-03
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as the heart pumps blood. It is usually described as two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The numbers record blood pressure in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), with systolic diastolic mentioned above. For most adults, healthy blood pressure is usually less than 120/80 mm Hg. Low blood pressure is a blood pressure that is less than 90/60 mm Hg.
Some people have low blood pressure all the time, and that's normal for them. Other people experience a sudden drop in blood pressure or have low blood pressure that may be related to a health problem. Many systems of the body, including organs, hormones, and nerves, regulate blood pressure. For example, the autonomic nervous system sends out the 'fight-or-flight' signal that, depending on the situation, tells the heart and other systems in the body to raise or lower blood pressure. Problems with the autonomic nervous system, such as in Parkinson's disease, can cause low blood pressure.
Other causes of low blood pressure include medications, bleeding, aging, and conditions such as dehydration, pregnancy, diabetes, and heart problems. Older adults are at higher risk for low blood pressure symptoms such as falling, fainting, or dizziness when standing up or after a meal. Older adults are also more likely to develop low blood pressure as a side effect of medicines used to control high blood pressure.
Low blood pressure goes unnoticed for many people. Others feel light-headed, confused, tired, or weak. You may have blurred vision, headache, neck or back pain, nausea, or palpitations. Sitting can relieve these symptoms. When blood pressure drops too low, the body's vital organs are not getting enough oxygen and nutrients. When this happens, low blood pressure can lead to shock, which requires immediate medical attention. Signs of shock include cold and sweaty skin, rapid breathing, a blue complexion, or a weak and fast pulse. If you notice signs of shock in yourself or someone else, call 9-1-1 .
Your doctor will use a blood pressure test to determine low blood pressure. Other tests may include blood, urine, or imaging tests and a tilt table test if you pass out frequently. You may not need treatment for low blood pressure. Depending on your signs and symptoms, treatment may include drinking more fluids, taking medications to increase your blood pressure, or adjusting medications that cause low blood pressure. Recommended lifestyle changes include changing what and how you eat and how you sit and stand. Your doctor may also recommend compression stockings if you have to stand for a long time.
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