The Basics Of Low Blood Pressure


Generally, normal blood pressure of a person falls in the range of 90/60 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg. Low blood pressure is a condition in which the blood pressure of a person is lower than the normal BP levels. When the blood pressure is low, there is insufficient flow of blood in the body.

Low blood flow means low deliverance of oxygen and nutrients to vital organs such as the brain, heart, and kidney. In such a case, the first organ to malfunction is the brain. And when the blood pressure falls too low, all the organs of the body start malfunctioning and may get damaged permanently.

It is possible that some individuals may have a blood pressure of 90/50 mmHg and still not show any symptoms of low blood pressure. On the other hand, it is also possible that a person, who has a normal blood pressure of 130/80 mmHg will show symptoms of low blood pressure if his blood pressure falls down to 100/60 mmHg, which in itself is not exactly low blood pressure problem.

In the first case, the person did not show any symptoms of low blood pressure as the blood pressure recorded was his normal and constant blood pressure level. But in the second case, the person showed symptoms of low blood pressure because his body was used to a blood pressure level of 130/80 mmHg. And when his blood pressure fell down to 100/60 mmHg, it was considered as low blood pressure by his body.

Symptoms of low blood pressure: Some general sign and symptoms of the low blood pressure can be listed as follows:

a) Dizziness
b) Palpitations
c) Confusion
d) Nausea
e) Tiredness
f) General weakness
g) Light-headedness and fainting
h) Blurred vision
i) Temporary loss of consciousness

Causes of low blood pressure:
Low blood pressure is the result of malfunctioning of the compensatory mechanism. There are several disorders and drugs that can throw the compensatory mechanism out of order. Some of the disorders include heart disease, a heart-valve disorder, tachycardia, bradycardia, kidney disorders and neurological disorders.

Some other causes of low blood pressure include:

1) Advanced diabetes
2) Alcohol
3) Medication used for surgery
4) Anti-anxiety agents
5) Dehydration
6) Changes in heart rhythm
7) Treatment for high blood pressure
8) Diuretics
9) Medication used for heart disorders
10) Anaphylaxis
11) Some antidepressants

Diagnosis of low blood pressure:
Blood pressure is measured by measuring both the systolic and the diastolic blood pressure levels. This can be measured manually with the help of an inflatable cuff or digitally with the automatic blood pressure recording machine. If the recorded blood pressure is lower than the normal range of blood pressure, then it is termed as low blood pressure.

Treatment for low blood pressure: Low blood pressure in itself is not treated. What is treated is the underlying reason that causes low blood pressure.