Low Blood Pressure Facts

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when a person's blood pressure falls below normal, healthy levels. A normal systolic blood pressure is generally between 90 and 120 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury) and a healthy diastolic pressure between 60 and 80 mm Hg.

Causes

• Low blood pressure can be caused by a range of ailments, including dehydration, heart or endocrine problems, serious infections or allergic reactions. Rapid blood loss and certain medications can also cause hypotension.

Symptoms

• If blood pressure drops quickly, the resulting hypotension can cause dizziness, nausea, vision impairment and/or confusion. Low blood pressure can also cause fainting.

Diagnosis

• A physician can determine a low blood pressure diagnosis by taking a patient's blood pressure readings. Blood tests may be ordered to determine a possible cause for the hypotension. In some cases, an electrocardiogram is performed to detect heart rhythm abnormalities.

Treatment

• Treatment for low blood pressure depends largely on the cause. If medications are causing hypotension, they may be adjusted by a doctor. Treating infections, inflammation and allergic reactions can help to bring blood pressure levels back to normal.

Prevention/Solution

• Because low blood pressure may be the result of an underlying medical condition, patients with lower than normal blood pressure readings should meet with a doctor to find out the cause of their hypotension.