Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when blood pressure readings drop below normal levels, typically:

  • Systolic pressure < 90 mmHg

  • Diastolic pressure < 60 mmHg

While often harmless, severe cases can reduce blood flow to vital organs.

Common Symptoms

✔ Dizziness or lightheadedness
✔ Fainting spells (syncope)
✔ Blurred vision
✔ Fatigue or weakness
✔ Nausea
✔ Difficulty concentrating

Key Causes & Risk Factors

1. Lifestyle-Related Causes

  • Dehydration (from inadequate fluid intake, vomiting, or diarrhea)

  • Prolonged bed rest

  • Nutritional deficiencies (B12, folate)

  • Alcohol consumption

2. Medical Conditions

  • Heart problems (bradycardia, valve issues, heart failure)

  • Endocrine disorders (thyroid disease, Addison’s disease)

  • Severe infections (septic shock)

  • Blood loss (trauma, internal bleeding)

  • Pregnancy (especially first 24 weeks)

3. Medication Side Effects

  • Diuretics

  • Alpha/beta blockers

  • Some antidepressants

  • Parkinson’s medications

When to Seek Emergency Care

🚨 Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing:

  • Confusion

  • Cold, clammy skin

  • Rapid, shallow breathing

  • Weak but rapid pulse
    (These may indicate shock, a life-threatening condition)

Diagnosis & Testing

Doctors may recommend:

  • Blood tests (check electrolytes, glucose, hormones)

  • ECG/EKG (assess heart rhythm)

  • Echocardiogram (evaluate heart structure)

  • Tilt-table test (for postural hypotension)

Treatment & Management Strategies

For Mild Cases

  • Increase fluid & salt intake (unless contraindicated)

  • Wear compression stockings

  • Stand up slowly from sitting/lying positions

  • Eat small, frequent meals (prevents postprandial hypotension)

Medical Treatments

  • Fludrocortisone (retains sodium)

  • Midodrine (constricts blood vessels)

  • IV fluids for acute cases

Prevention Tips

✔ Stay hydrated (2-3L water daily)
✔ Limit alcohol
✔ Exercise regularly (improves circulation)
✔ Elevate head during sleep (6-9 inches)

Long-Term Outlook

Most people with mild hypotension live normally with simple lifestyle adjustments. Those with underlying conditions require ongoing monitoring.

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Nader Afshari

Nader Afshari

Cardiologist

Dr. Nader Afshari is a dedicated and compassionate cardiologist with over 8 years of experience in diagnosing and treating patients […]

Iran, Tehran