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Remedies for Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, occurs when the flow of blood through the arteries loses pressure. A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 while a low blood pressure reading would be 90/60 or lower. Low blood pressure is usually not a medical issue unless certain symptoms appear.

  1. Symptoms and Causes

    • Low blood pressure can cause light-headedness, dizziness, fainting, blurry vision, nausea and shallow breathing. Occasional symptoms of low blood pressure may not be a serious problem, but if symptoms persist inform your doctor. Insufficient blood flow to major organs can cause damage or failure.
      Pregnancy, heart problems, dehydration, endocrine problems, blood loss and infection that reaches the bloodstream can all cause low blood pressure. Allergic reactions to food, certain medications and venom from insects can cause a dangerously low blood pressure along with a swollen throat, itching and hives.

    Medical issues

    • Treatment depends on the cause of the low blood pressure. If dehydration, heart problems, diabetes or endocrine problems are the cause, then treatment of the medical condition should correct the low blood pressure.

    Raising blood pressure

    • If no underlying medical issue is causing the low blood pressure, then finding ways to raise the blood pressure is key. You can do this several ways, depending upon your age and your health. Upping your salt intake may increase blood pressure, but check with a doctor before trying this treatment. People with heart problems should not increase sodium in their diet. Increasing your fluid intake will keep you from becoming dehydrated, a cause of low blood pressure.

    Medications

    • Sometimes, a medication itself is causing the low blood pressure. In this case, a doctor may reduce the dosage or stop the use of the medication.
      Medications used to treat low blood pressure include fludrocortisone, which can raise your blood volume and increases blood pressure. Midodrine restricts your blood vessels' ability to expand, raising your blood pressure.
      Always follow your doctor's advice on how to alleviate low blood pressure.

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