Dangers of Low Blood Pressure
The dangers of low blood pressure and too low blood pressure do not get as much coverage in health reports as high blood pressure. This is due in part to the comparatively low numbers of people who have the disorder as opposed to the millions of high blood pressure sufferers. However, the folks who do suffer from this under-reported medical condition should be aware of the dangers of low blood pressure. Hypotension, or low blood pressure, occurs when blood pressure is much lower than the normal rate of 120/80. One of the possible dangers of low blood pressure is that the brain, heart, and other parts of the body are not getting enough blood to function properly. Low blood pressure that occurs suddenly can signal danger. For example, it can be a sign of internal bleeding or toxic shock syndrome. Hypotension can also develop as a side effect of certain medications. Patients with low blood pressure are often advised to sleep with their head elevated to prevent dizziness when they get up after lying down. Causes Blood pressure that is borderline low for one person may be normal for another. Hypotension can be brought on by a sudden shift in body position such as shifting from lying down to standing. This type of low blood pressure typically only lasts a few seconds. Chronic low blood pressure may cause an ongoing problem of losing their balance for some sufferers. Low blood pressure may be caused by: * Alcohol * Anti-anxiety medications * Antidepressants * Diuretics * Heart medicines * Painkillers Other causes of low blood pressure include: * Diabetes * Anaphylactic shock * Irregular heartbeat * Dehydration * Heart Disease * Shock Symptoms A great majority of people with hypotension suffer no ill side effects from the condition and in fact low blood pressure is "normal" for them. On the other hand, for a small group of individuals that do experience symptoms due to low blood pressure, the condition can be dangerous. Dangers of low blood pressure include: * Blurred vision * Disorientation * Dizziness * Loss of balance * Constant fatigue * Fainting spells * Weakness * Sleepiness Diagnosis of low blood pressure danger The doctor will check your vital signs such as pulse, breathing, and blood pressure. Inform your physician if low blood pressure is normal for you and what medications you are taking. You will be asked about your diet and if you have suffered a recent injury or illness. Report any extremely low blood pressure like fainting or feelings of light-headedness when arising after periods of sitting or lying down. Other diagnostic tests may be performed such as blood tests, ECG, urinalysis, and X-rays. Hypotension in a healthy person does not generally cause any problems that require medical treatment. If symptoms do occur, the condition can normally be successfully treated. Severe hypotension caused by shock is a medical emergency. If your symptoms are caused by medication, your doctor may change your prescription to a different dosage or alternate drug. If you have low blood pressure, your doctor may recommend preventive steps to control your symptoms including: Avoid alcohol Do not stand for long periods Drink plenty of liquids Rise slowly after sitting or lying down Wear compression hose to increase blood pressure in the legs Dangers of low blood pressure include complications such as shock and injuries from falls due to fainting. Severe hypotension starves your body of essential oxygen, which can lead to heart or brain damage. This type of low blood pressure can be life threatening if not immediately treated. Go to Blood Pressure Chart from Dangers of Low Blood Pressure |
