By Terrie Johnson | UAB Community Health & Human Services Intern

Although most health complications relating to blood pressure often focus on high blood pressure (hypertension), low blood pressure (hypotension) is a significant issue that deserves attention. Low blood pressure is below 90/60 mmHg (systolic and diastolic). Hypotension can cause shock, a health condition characterized by confusion, weak pulse, and changes in skin coloration. Besides, some people may experience lightheadedness, fatigue, fainting, and difficulty concentrating. Low blood pressure is a serious medical issue requiring adequate attention.

Medical conditions, medications, and age are the primary causes of low blood pressure. Pregnancy, blood loss, heart problems, dehydration, lack of vitamin B-12 in diet, and severe infections are some medical conditions leading to hypotension (Cautela et al., 2020). Besides, Cautela et al. (2020) adds that medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, antidepressants, and drugs treating Parkinson’s disease and erectile dysfunction can cause low blood pressure. Lastly, people older than 65 risks developing hypotension. The rationale for age as a risk factor is that elderly individuals are more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease and heart conditions that lower blood pressure. Health problems, medications, and age are the leading causes of low blood pressure.

People suffering from low blood pressure can improve their condition by drinking more water, using more salt, and taking hypotension medications. Increased water intake improves blood volume and prevents dehydration, resulting in increased blood pressure. In addition, taking more salt can help treat hypotension. However, individuals should first consult their healthcare provider to avoid heart complications. Lastly, medications like fludrocortisone boost blood volume, resulting in increased pressure. A person with low blood pressure can improve their health by drinking more water, using more salt, and taking hypotension medications.

Low blood pressure is a serious health issue because it results in shock, fatigue, and lightheadedness. Medical conditions, medications, and age are the leading causes of hypotension. Nevertheless, one may remedy this condition by drinking more water, using more salt, and taking hypotension medications. Low blood pressure requires serious attention, just like high blood pressure.

References

Cautela, J., Tartiere, J. M., Cohen-Solal, A., Bellemain‐Appaix, A., Theron, A., Tibi, T., & Girerd, N. (2020). Management of low blood pressure in ambulatory heart failure with reduced ejection fraction patients. European Journal of Heart Failure, 22(8), 1357-1365. https://doi.org/10.1002/ejhf.1835.

Cleveland Clinic, (n.d). Low blood pressure (hypotension). (Online image). https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21156-low-blood-pressure-hypotension.