What is Low Blood Pressure? Range and Symptoms

 What is Low Blood Pressure? Range and Symptoms You Need to Know

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a condition where the pressure of the blood flowing through your arteries is abnormally low. If your blood pressure is lower than 90/60 mmHg, you may be experiencing low blood pressure symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and fainting. Knowing your blood pressure range and being aware of the symptoms associated with low blood pressure can help you identify the problem and take steps to manage it. In this blog post, we'll discuss what low blood pressure is, its range, and the symptoms you need to be aware of.

What is low blood pressure?

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a condition in which the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is lower than it should be. Low blood pressure is usually not considered dangerous, however, if it falls into the dangerously low range it can have serious consequences and even cause death. Low blood pressure is not necessarily a disease but rather a symptom of an underlying condition. Common causes of low blood pressure include dehydration, heart problems, pregnancy, severe infection, allergic reactions, and other conditions.

Low blood pressure dangerous range

Low blood pressure becomes dangerous when it falls below 90/60mmHg. At this point, the body may not be able to adequately deliver oxygen to organs and tissues. Symptoms of low blood pressure at this stage can become more pronounced and can include loss of consciousness, confusion, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. 

Causes of low blood pressure

The exact cause of low blood pressure is not always clear. Common causes include anemia, dehydration, and certain medications. Other possible causes of low blood pressure can include pregnancy, endocrine disorders, heart problems, nutritional deficiencies, severe infections, and even certain foods. Some of the more serious causes of what is the cause low blood pressure include anaphylaxis, heart attack, or septic shock. 

Low blood pressure can also be caused by a decrease in blood volume due to excessive sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. In some cases, the cause of low blood pressure may be unknown. It is important to speak to your doctor if you experience any symptoms that could indicate low blood pressure.

Symptoms of low blood pressure

The symptoms of low blood pressure can vary from person to person and range from feeling lightheaded or dizzy to fainting. Other symptoms of low blood pressure may include fatigue, blurred vision, difficulty concentrating, nausea, shallow breathing, paleness, sweating, and lack of energy.

It is important to consult a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms to determine the underlying cause.

When to see a doctor

If you are experiencing any of the low blood pressure symptoms mentioned above, it is important to speak with your doctor as soon as possible. Low blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying medical condition that requires immediate treatment.

In addition, if you experience sudden or prolonged drops in blood pressure, lightheadedness, or fainting, seek medical attention right away. It could indicate a more serious condition such as heart failure or a stroke. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes or medication to help manage your low blood pressure. It is important to follow the instructions of your physician and to report any changes in your low blood pressure symptoms.

Complications of low blood pressure

Low blood pressure can cause a variety of health issues, including:

1. Dizziness: Low blood pressure can cause dizziness or lightheadedness. This can make it difficult to stand up or move around.

2. Fatigue: With low blood pressure, your body may not be receiving enough oxygen, which can cause extreme tiredness. 

3. Fainting: If your low blood pressure is severe, it can cause you to faint or become unconscious.

4. Organ damage: When your blood pressure is too low, it can reduce the amount of blood flow to vital organs such as your heart, brain, and kidneys. This can lead to organ damage over time.

5. Shock: In extreme cases of low blood pressure, shock can occur. This is a life-threatening condition that requires emergency medical attention.

It is important to monitor your low blood pressure symptoms, as well as keep track of your low blood pressure range. You should see a doctor if you have any concerns about your blood pressure levels or if you experience any of the above complications. Treatment will depend on the cause of your low blood pressure and the severity of your symptoms.

Prevention of low blood pressure

Low blood pressure can be prevented by making healthy lifestyle changes, such as following a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and getting enough rest. Eating a diet high in fiber and low in sodium can help to prevent low blood pressure. It is also important to stay hydrated, as dehydration can cause low blood pressure. If you are taking medication, make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions closely to avoid side effects that can lead to low blood pressure. Lastly, try to reduce stress levels, as this can help maintain healthy blood pressure. Taking these steps can help keep your low blood pressure in check and ensure your overall health and well-being.

Range of low blood pressure

A low blood pressure range for adults is generally considered to be below 90/60mmHg. In this
range, the heart may not be able to pump enough oxygen-rich blood throughout the body which can lead to a variety of symptoms. 

Range of normal blood pressure

A normal blood pressure range for adults is between 90/60mmHg and 120/80mmHg. This range is considered optimal for the average adult and means that the heart is able to pump sufficient blood throughout the body. 

How to control blood pressure

If you have been diagnosed with low blood pressure there are several steps you can take to help maintain it within a safe range. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly, reducing your intake of alcohol and caffeine, avoiding strenuous activity in hot weather, and reducing stress can all help to keep your blood pressure within a healthy range. Additionally, you may need to take medication prescribed by your doctor.