Often times people hear about high blood pressure and the risks and scares that are associated, it is important to be of low blood pressure. It comes with its own troubles. Read on to learn more about what causes low blood pressure or hypotension, what the symptoms are, and how one can be treated for it.
Healthy Tip Tuesday is brought to you in partnership with Trinity Health Systems.
Types of low blood pressure include:
- Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension). This is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing from a sitting position or after lying down. It is common in older adults.
- Postprandial hypotension-Occurs 1 to 2 hours after eating, it’s most likely to affect older adults.
- Neurally mediated hypotension- A drop after standing for long periods. This type of low blood pressure mostly affects young adults and children.
- Multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension- Also called Shy-Drager syndrome, this rare disorder affects the nervous system that controls involuntary functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, breathing and digestion. It’s associated with having very high blood pressure while lying down.
Symptoms:
- Blurred or fading vision
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Nausea
Extreme low blood pressure can lead to a condition known as shock. Symptoms of shock include:
- Confusion, especially in older people
- Cold, clammy skin
- Decrease in skin coloration (pallor)
- Rapid, shallow breathing
- Weak and rapid pulse
Ways to prevent low blood pressure:
- Annual health screenings
- Take any medications as prescribed
- Stay hydrated
- Maintain a healthy blood sugar level
