How to Increase Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure (hypotension) is defined as blood pressure that causes symptoms due to the insufficient flow of blood through the circulatory system. Unlike hypertension, which is defined in terms of a specific blood pressure, hypotension is not associated with any particular blood pressure level. Some individuals may not experience symptoms at 90/50, whereas patients who are normally hypertensive may develop symptoms at a blood pressure of 100/60. Hypotension is typically treated by addressing its underlying cause.

Instructions

• 1

  Treat hypotension due to dehydration. Mild dehydration can usually be treated with oral electrolyte replenishment. More severe dehydration may require intravenous fluids in a hospital setting.

• 2

  Treat hypotension due to blood loss with blood transfusions as well as intravenous fluids. Continuous or severe bleeding requires immediate treatment.

• 3

  Treat hypotension due to blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis) or lungs (pulmonary embolism) with blood thinners. The traditional treatment is an initial administration of intravenous heparin followed by oral dosages of warfarin (Coumadin).

• 4

  Treat hypotension that occurs after meals (postprandial hypotension). Patients with this form of hypotension may benefit from oral medication such as indomethacin (Indocin) or ibuprofen (Motrin).

• 5

  Treat postural hypotension. This type of hypotension is due to remaining in one position for a prolonged period of time. It can frequently be treated simply by increasing water intake or using compression stockings to reduce the amount of blood that pools in the veins. A doctor may also prescribe other measures such as increasing salt intake or medication such as midodrine (ProAmatine).