Low blood pressure: what are the symptoms and when is it dangerous?

The low blood pressure or hypotension It happens when blood pressure is much lower than normal. The standard level is almost always between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg. If they are below it, it can be dangerous, as it means the heart, brain and other parts of the body are not getting enough blood.

According to a MedlinePlus report, the levels change depending on the person: what their diet is like, their physical activity and other factors. The causes can range from dehydration to serious medical conditions. It’s important to find out what’s causing your decline so it can be treated if needed.

low blood pressure symptoms

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Fainting (syncope)
• Dehydration and unusual thirst
• Dehydration can sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure. However, dehydration doesn’t always cause low blood pressure. Fever, vomiting, severe diarrhea, overuse of diuretics, and vigorous exercise can lead to dehydration, a potentially serious condition in which the body loses more water than it takes in. Even mild dehydration (a loss of only 1% to 2% of body weight) can cause weakness, dizziness, and fatigue.
• Lack of concentration
• Blurry vision
• Cold, clammy, pale skin
• Shallow and rapid breathing
• Fatigue
• Depression

types of hypotension

• Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension): It is a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up or after lying down. Causes include dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical conditions, and some medications. This type of low blood pressure is common in the elderly.
• Postprandial hypotension: it can be felt an hour or two after eating. It is more likely to affect the elderly, especially those with high blood pressure or diseases of the autonomic nervous system, such as Parkinson’s disease. Eating small portions of low-carb meals, drinking more water, and avoiding alcohol can help reduce symptoms.
• Nervous hypotension: occurs after standing for long periods of time. This type of low blood pressure primarily affects young adults and children. It could be due to a failure in the communication between the heart and the brain.
• Multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension: Also called Shy-Drager syndrome, it is rare and affects the nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and digestion. It is related to very high blood pressure when lying down.

When to see the doctor

​If your blood pressure is extremely low and you experience any of the above symptoms, you should seek professional help.

If symptoms do not appear but the low blood pressure is permanent, it should be checked with routine medical tests as often as indicated by the specialist.