Risk of Low Blood Pressure

We frequently hear about the importance of reducing high blood pressure, but blood pressure can become too low as well. Low blood pressure or hypotension can cause dizziness and fainting and can be an indication of serious health problems including heart disorders. Low blood pressure is highly treatable however. There are several risk factors that can make someone susceptible to hypotension.

Defining Hypotension

• The National Institute of Health (NIH) says normal blood pressures readings typically fall between 90/60 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) to 130/80 mm Hg. According to the Mayo Clinic a blood pressure reading of 90 mm Hg or less (the top number in a blood pressure reading or systolic) or 60 mm Hg or less (the bottom number or diastolic) is considered low blood pressure.

  The NIH says there are three types of hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension usually lasts a few seconds and takes place due to an abrupt change in the position of the body such as moving from a sitting to standing position. The equally brief postprandial orthostatic hypotension occurs after eating. Neurally mediated hypotension (NMH) is triggered by an extended period of standing.

Medicinal Risks

• The Mayo Clinic says people (particularly those over age 80) who are taking high blood pressure medications such as alpha blockers are at an increased risk of hypotension.

  Other types of medications that can cause low pressure are certain anti-anxiety and anti-depression medications (tricyclic antidepressant including amitriptyline/Elavil), diuretics (water pills) and sildenafil (Viagra), especially when used in combination with the heart medication, nitroglycerine.

Health-Related Risks

• The NIH says other common causes of hypotension include irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmias), heart attacks, advanced diabetes, dehydration, anaphylaxis (potentially fatal allergic reaction) and fainting.

  According to the Mayo Clinic an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause hypotension. Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) and adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) may also result in low blood pressure.

Symptoms

• The NIH says signs and symptoms of hypotension may include dizziness, lightheadedness, blurry vision, confusion, sleepiness and weakness. You should contact your doctor right away if you notice black or maroon stools during bowel movements, have a fever higher than 101, are experiencing shortness of breath, chest pains or have an irregular heartbeat.

Treatment

• If you believe you are experiencing signs or symptoms of hypotension you may require treatment. The NIH says in severe cases, your doctor may prescribe medicines such as fludrocortisones. The Mayo Clinic says in general treatment will depends on the underlying cause of your low blood pressure. If you have drug-related orthostatic hypotension your doctor may alter the dose or change your medication. People with NMH should limit standing for long periods. Home remedies include the use of compression stockings to increase blood pressure in the legs and drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.