Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, refers to a medical condition characterized by a decrease in the normal blood pressure levels within the arteries. Blood pressure is the measurement of the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of blood vessels, and it is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). In the case of low blood pressure, the systolic pressure (top number) falls below 90 mmHg, and the diastolic pressure (bottom number) is below 60 mmHg.
Lower blood pressure may lead to inadequate blood flow and oxygen supply to vital organs, potentially causing symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, blurred vision, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. There are different types of hypotension, including orthostatic hypotension, which occurs when blood pressure drops upon standing up; postprandial hypotension, which happens after eating; and neurally mediated hypotension, caused by a miscommunication between the heart and brain.
Low blood pressure can arise due to various factors, such as dehydration, blood loss, medications, certain medical conditions (e.g., endocrine disorders or heart conditions), pregnancy, or even as a normal physiological response in some individuals. Although low blood pressure is generally not a cause for concern, persistent low blood pressure that significantly disrupts daily life may require medical evaluation and treatment. Management of low blood pressure typically involves addressing the underlying cause, increasing fluid intake, wearing compression stockings, eating smaller meals, avoiding sudden position changes, and taking prescribed medications.
