We have all heard the warnings about high blood pressure, but what about the other end of the spectrum, low blood pressure or hypotension? It may seem like low blood pressure reading is good, but are there potential health hazards that come with this seemingly “good” BP reading?
It turns out that there are some potentially hazardous health issues that low BP can present. Understanding the low blood pressure range can help you avoid any potential problems, from fainting to shock.
The peril of high blood pressure is well documented, but not many people talk about the potential hazards of having a blood pressure drop. What exactly constitutes Hypotension or low BP? When your BP is taken, there are two numbers of importance: systolic and diastolic pressure.
These fancy words mean the BP of your heart at rest (diastolic) and the pressure of your heart when beating (systolic). The low blood pressure range, also known as the hypotension range, is 90 mmHg for systolic pressure and 60 mmHg for diastolic pressure.
A reading less than 90/60mmHg is considered a low BP range. Low blood pressure or hypotension do not cause symptoms necessarily but may require adequate and timely treatment if symptoms surface.
According to a National Library of Medicine research paper, hypotension is usually asymptomatic. However, if symptoms become apparent, the most common low blood pressure symptoms may include -
According to the same research paper cited above, certain symptoms associated with hypotension may stem from an underlying condition. These symptoms may include -
The symptoms can be caused by a number of issues, including medication, dehydration, and other potentially serious medical issues. While high blood pressure can present health issues, the effects of hypotension should not be ignored. Extreme hypotension or low blood pressure can lead to shock, which can be life-threatening.
One German study determined that in elderly people with high BP, there was no tangible risk of fatal issues but a higher rate of issues in those with lower blood pressure, especially during pregnancy (including low birth weight and perinatal mortality). Seems counterintuitive, doesn’t it?
If you suspect you suffer from hypotension, your doctor may decide on a series of tests to determine if you truly suffer from this disorder or if it is a temporary condition. Some tests that he may order include, but are not limited to:
The results of these tests can help determine the course of action taken to treat low blood pressure or hypotension. If your hypotension is caused by medication, a simple change or adjustment in your medication may be all that is required. Other steps that could be taken include lifestyle changes such as increased salt in your diet, drinking more water, compression stockings, or prescription medication.
A low blood pressure range may seem like a godsend, but underlying causes could be detrimental to your health. Before starting any treatment, consult your physician to ensure you take the correct steps.
According to the AHA (American Heart Association), most doctors consider chronically low BP numbers such as 50/30 a dangerously low BP range if accompanied by additional symptoms. Some of the severe symptoms that may come unexpectedly should be taken seriously.
Health Products For You offers a wide range of healthcare and medical supplies for blood pressure management, including blood pressure monitor kits, wrist blood pressure monitors, thermometers, sphygmomanometers, and more at the most affordable prices. Shop from HPFY and get exclusive discounts on all that you buy. Explore today!
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Kevin Cleary has been a Health Products For You contributor for many years and has a degree in marketing. His health and wellness journey has a very personal meaning and has guided him in his content writing for HPFY.
In 2006, ...
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