Blood pressure is a vital health indicator that measures the force of circulating blood against the walls of your arteries. While high blood pressure (hypotension) often dominates health discussions, low blood pressure (hypotension) is equally essential to understand, as it can lead to dizziness, fainting, and even serious health complications.
Your blood pushes against your arteries with every heartbeat, and this force is what we call blood pressure. It naturally fluctuates throughout the day in response to sleeping and moving around. However, blood pressure drops too low can cause dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting symptoms. Hypotension can occur for various reasons, including standing up too quickly, eating, experiencing shock or stress, pregnancy, and certain medical conditions.
Being aware of the causes and symptoms of hypotension is crucial for maintaining overall well-being and ensuring prompt medical attention when necessary.
What Is Hypotension(Low Blood Pressure)?
Blood pressure is measured in two ways, one when the heart beats and the second during the rest period between beats. There are two types of pressure:
Systolic pressure (systole) measures the blood force pumping through your arteries when the heart’s ventricles contract, supplying your body with blood.
Diastolic Pressure(diastole) measures the blood pressure during the resting phase when the heart is filled with blood, supplying the coronary arteries.
A blood pressure reading includes two numbers: systolic over diastolic(e.g-120/80 mmHg). Low blood pressure (below 120/80 mmHg) is considered beneficial. But if blood pressure drops too low, it can lead to dizziness and fatigue.
Hypotension, defined as blood pressure, is generally considered below 90/60 mmHg, which indicates a severely low blood level and requires immediate medical attention. In general, individuals can feel low blood pressure because of hectic schedules or sometimes tension, others may experience symptoms that disrupt their daily life.
Types Of Hypotension
| Types | Description | Causes | Symptoms |
| Orthostatic(Postural Hypotension) | Sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up | Aging, dehydration, prolonged bed rest, medication | Dizziness, blurred vision, lightheadedness, fainting |
| Postprandial Hypotension | Drop in blood pressure after eating | Ageing, diabetes, autonomic nervous system disorder, high carbohydrate meals | Dizziness, fainting, nausea, weakness |
| Neurally Mediated Hypotension | Blood pressure drops due to faulty brain-heart communication | Standing for long periods, emotional stress, heat exposure, nervous system disorder | Dizziness, nausea,brain fog, fainting |
| Severe (Shock-Induced)Hypotension | A life-threatening condition where blood pressure drops dangerously low | Major blood loss, sepsis, heart failure, severe allergic reactions | confusion, cold/clammy skin,rapid breathing, weak pulse, loss of consciousness |
| Chronic Hypotension | Persistently low blood pressure, which may or may not cause symptoms | Genetic predisposition, hormonal imbalances, neurological disorders, malnutrition | Fatigue, dizziness,fainting ,depression, difficulty concentrating |
Who Does Hypotension Affect The Most?
Hypotension can affect anyone, no matter what gender or age group you belong to, but certain people are more vulnerable to it. Usually, older people, especially those over 50, are much more likely at risk due to age-related changes in blood circulation, increasing the chances of dizziness and falls. Due to hormonal changes, pregnant women also experience low blood pressure, and physically active individuals or athletes have naturally low blood pressure and show no severe symptoms. People who have suffered from any heart condition feel more dehydrated or are taking any medication like diuretics or antidepressants are also at high risk of hypotension.
Causes Of Hypotension or Low Blood Pressure
Everybody experiences a drop in blood pressure at some point in life. The body regulates blood flow naturally, and occasional fluctuations in blood pressure are normal. Many individuals consistently experience low blood pressure without showing any symptoms. This condition is known as asymptomatic hypotension, which is not serious and harmless and does not require any medical treatment. This is simply caused by variation caused by the body maintaining circulations; there is no exact reason for this condition. But if continuity remains in low blood pressure, there is an underlying health condition, a required medical condition.
-Triggers of sudden blood pressure drop
A sudden decrease in blood pressure can occur due to various triggers, including:
- Standing Up Quickly – Rapidly changing positions can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness (orthostatic hypotension).
- Eating a Meal – Blood is directed to the digestive system after eating, which can lower blood pressure, especially in older adults (postprandial hypotension).
- Experiencing Fear or Shock – Sudden emotional stress, fear, or a traumatic event can trigger a drop in blood pressure due to the nervous system’s response.
Several other factors can cause low blood pressure. Some are listed below:
Blood pressure is measured using a device known as a sphygmomanometer. If the measurement drops 30mmHg below the person’s usual blood pressure, this is considered to be hypotension.
-Low blood pressure has many different causes, including:
- Pregnancy
- Emotional stress, fear, insecurity, or pain (the most common causes of fainting)
- Dehydration because of excessive sweating, which reduces blood volume
- The body’s reaction to heat, which is to shunt blood into the vessels of the skin, leading to dehydration
- Internal bleeding, such as a perforated stomach ulcer
- Blood loss from trauma, such as a road accident, deep cut, or any external injury.
- Medications for high blood pressure
- Diuretics, which produce fluid loss
- Medications for depression
- Medications for certain heart conditions
- Allergic reaction to certain drugs or chemicals
- Some forms of infection, such as toxic shock syndrome
- Heart disease, which can hamper the pumping action of the heart muscle
- Some nervous system disorders, such as Parkinson’s disease
- Addison’s disease (where the adrenal glands fail to produce sufficient blood-pressure-maintaining hormones).
Symptoms Of Hypotension
Initially, some individuals don’t feel or experience any symptoms of low blood pressure. Still, if it starts getting serious, you may notice signs indicating inadequate blood flow to the brain and other organs.
Mild To Moderate Dehydration
- Increased thirst
- Yellow or dark-coloured urine
- Problem in urinating or decreased urination
- Dry or itchy skin
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Dry eyes and lips
- Headache
Severe Dehydration(Medical Emergency)
- Extreme thirst
- Very dark-coloured urine or no urine output
- Increased heartbeat
- Confusion or irritability
- Sunken eyes with dark circles below
- Loss of consciousness
- Cold sweaty skin
Treatment Of Hypotension
Effective Ways To Treat Low Blood Pressure At Home
If you start feeling low blood pressure (hypotension), start noticing mild symptoms in yourself, but they are not serious yet. Then, by bringing some changes in your daily life, you can reverse these symptoms
-Keep Yourself Hydrated
Increase fluid intake in your daily life and drink plenty of water, especially in summertime or after any physical exercise where the body sweats a lot, resulting in dehydration or decreased blood volume.
Oral rehydration solution(ORS) or electrolyte-rich drinks like coconut water or energy drinks can help you restore body balance.
-Avoid Standing Up Quickly
Standing up too quickly or suddenly changing position can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure, which can cause dizziness or fainting(orthostatic hypotension); instead of moving rapidly, take your time when transitioning from a sitting or lying position; it gives your body time to adjust. Taking deep breaths while standing up helps you maintain optimal blood pressure. Additionally, flexing your legs or wiggling your toes before getting up helps blood circulation and reduces symptoms.
-Eat Small And Frequent Meals
Larger meals usually make you feel full, which can trigger postprandial hypotension, a drop in blood pressure after eating. To avoid this condition, take small meals in small portions more frequently throughout the day. If you still feel that certain dizziness or low blood pressure after your meal, your doctor may recommend adjusting your meal timing or diet. More minor changes, like avoiding standing up quickly after a meal, can reduce the risk of dizziness. Many ways can help you manage your low blood pressure daily.
-Keep Yourself Calm And Avoid Excess Heat
Exposure to high temperature affects your body vessels, leading them to dilate, resulting in low blood pressure and symptoms like dizziness and fainting. Avoid taking hot showers, using saunas, or spending more time in the sun to avoid hypotension. In hot weather, you should prefer wearing light or breathable clothing and avoid strenuous activities in high temperatures to maintain stable blood pressure levels.
-Add More Physical Movement To Your Daily Routine
While standing up for extended periods makes your legs numb and slows down blood pressure, try flexing your leg muscles or shift your weight to keep blood flowing. Engage more in gentle exercises like short walks between long work hours, yoga, or stretching, which can improve blood circulation.
Medical Treatment
If your hypotension symptoms are getting severe and worsening day by day in this condition, you may need medical attention, and the doctor can recommend the following:
1-Medication To Raise Blood Pressure
- Fludrocortisone helps retain sodium and fluids to increase blood volume and blood pressure.
- Midodrine(ProAmatine)stimulates nerve endings in blood vessels and tightens the blood vessels, increasing blood pressure.
- Droxidopa(Northera) is used for neurogenic orthostatic hypotension to improve blood pressure regulation.
2-Treating Underlying Condition
If hypotension is caused by heart disease, diabetes, endocrine disorders(such as adrenal insufficiency or thyroid imbalances) or anaemia. In such cases, your doctor will prescribe you medications such as hormone replacement therapy or iron and vitamin B12 supplements.
3-Emergency Treatments For Severe Hypotension(Shock)
Hypotension caused by shock can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.Intravenous(IV) fluids, saline, blood transfusion, or medication are treatments provided during emergencies.
4- Adjusting Medication That Lowers Blood Pressure(Hypotension)
If any medication in this condition causes blood pressure. In that case, your doctor will adjust your dosage or provide alternative medicines or treatments to prevent further drop in blood pressure.
Complications Related To Hypotension
| Complications | Depiction |
| Dizziness And Fall | A sudden drop in blood pressure can cause dizziness or fainting, increasing the risk of falls and injuries, especially in older adults. |
| Shock | Very low blood pressure can lead to shock, a life-threatening condition in which organs do not receive enough oxygen, causing confusion, rapid breathing and unconsciousness. |
| Organ Damage | Prolonged low blood pressure can result in organ damage like kidney failure, heart attack or stroke. |
| Cognitive Issues | Chronic hypotension may reduce blood flow to the brain, leading to memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating, especially in older adults. |
| Shock Induced Multi-Failure | Severe hypotension caused by septic shock or heavy bleeding can result in multiple organ failure. |
When To See A Doctor?
If you experience severe low blood pressure symptoms or shock, such as confusion, rapid breathing, cold or clammy skin, or a weak pulse, call your local emergency number immediately and seek medical help.
Most healthcare professionals consider blood pressure too low only if symptoms are visible. Though some individuals experience low blood pressure more often because of their routine or lifestyle but dont feel severe symptoms. However, some people experience dizziness and fatigue more often, which hampers their health and daily routine and can even cause fainting, blurred vision, nausea or fatigue; in such cases, it is essential to seek medical help immediately.
If you have constantly low blood pressure below 90/60mmHg and still feel fine and can perform your daily activities, then treatment may not required. In this case, your doctor will monitor your condition during routine checkups. Keeping records of your symptoms when they occur and which activity you performed when those symptoms appeared can help you identify your triggers and prevent serious complications.
Takeaway
Low blood pressure(hypotension) is less talked about and less taken seriously. Still, it should be kept in mind that any change in blood flow directly affects your body in some way or another, and if it is not treated correctly or managed on time, it can result in life-threatening conditions. It is not at all hard to recognise. You can manage hypotension symptoms and triggers by understanding them.
Keeping yourself hydrated, eating small meals, and avoiding long-standing and sudden position changes can help you overcome low blood pressure. If symptoms persist, the doctor may prescribe you some medication or can recommend you a lifestyle change. Always follow your doctor’s advice and take proper medicines for better outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1- What organ causes hypotension?
Hypotension can be caused by:
- Heart: If it cannot pump efficient blood in the body due to weak valves or heart failure.
- Brain: Nervous system dysfunction can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure, leading to low blood pressure(hypotension).
- Kidney: Kidney dysfunction can reduce blood volume, electrolyte balance and hormone regulation.
2- How to fast low blood pressure?
Drink plenty of water for better circulation to improve your low blood pressure. Eat a salty snack or small meal to help retain fluids and increase blood pressure. If you feel dizzy, lie down and move your legs to enhance blood flow to the brain.
3- What time of day is blood pressure lower?
Blood pressure is usually low when you sleep in the morning due to reduced heart activity and relaxed blood vessels. It rises when you start moving as it improves blood circulation and the body prepares for daily activities. After resting for long time, you can feel your blood pressure low because of slow blood movement, and some people also feel blood pressure drop in the afternoon meals.
4 -Which fruit improves low blood pressure(hypotension)?
Individuals with low blood pressure should keep themselves hydrated and eat fruits rich in potassium folate and vitamins, like bananas, oranges, and pomegranates, which improve blood circulation.
5-Is low blood pressure limit different for everybody?
The low blood pressure limit is usually the same for men and women, which is 90/60mmHg. However, women seem to be more prone to low blood pressure because of hormonal fluctuations, pregnancy or smaller blood volume. Low blood pressure tolerance varies based on overall health and symptoms rather than gender alone.
6- Which limit is considered a dangerously low blood level?
A blood pressure reading below 70/40mmHg is considered as dangerous, leading to shock, organ damage, unconsciousness or even death. If you are feeling dizziness, rapid breathing, or other symptoms like fainting, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
