What is low blood pressure? Blood pressure refers to the force with which circulating blood acts on the walls of blood vessels. It is expressed as systolic/diastolic, for example, 120/80. The top number is systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure in the arteries when the heart muscles contract and pump blood. The lower value is diastolic, which is the pressure in the arteries after contraction of the heart muscles. The top value is always higher.
Systolic blood pressure for most he althy adults is in the range of 120 mmHg, while normal diastolic blood pressure is between 60 and 80 mmHg
Low blood pressure (or hypotension) means that the blood cannot deliver enough nutrients and oxygen to human organs such as the brain, kidneys, heart, etc. As a result, they do not function normally.
Unlike high blood pressure, low blood pressure is determined primarily by signs andsymptoms, not a specific number. Some people may have 90/50 blood pressure without symptoms, while others may develop symptoms at 100/60.
Low blood pressure in he althy people without any symptoms or damage to internal organs does not need treatment. But he alth problems can occur when it falls suddenly and the brain is deprived of an adequate blood supply. This can lead to dizziness. A sudden fall most often occurs in a person who rises from an inclined position or stands up abruptly. This drop in numbers is called postural, or orthostatic, hypotension. If it is lowered when a person stands for a long time, then this is neuromediated hypotension.
The risk of developing this disease increases with age, due in part to normal changes in the aging process. In addition, blood flow to the brain and heart muscle decreases with age as a result of deposits in the blood vessels. An estimated 15% to 25% of older people have postural hypotension.
Also, both low lower blood pressure and high blood pressure can be caused by the following:
• arrhythmias;
• hormonal problems such as hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus or hypoglycemia;
• certain medications;
• heart failure;
• pregnancy;
• dilated blood vessels;
• liver disease;• heat stroke.
Sudden and unexpected drop in blood pressure is life threatening. The reasonsthis type of hypotension include:
• blood loss due to bleeding;
• low or high body temperature;
• sepsis, severe infections;
• severe dehydration due to vomiting, fever or diarrhea;
• reaction to alcohol or medication;• severe allergic reaction – anaphylactic shock.
If you are found to have low blood pressure, treatment will be as follows:
1. Diet:
- Increasing the amount of s alt in the diet. Although this method may be beneficial for patients with hypotension, the supplement should be used in moderation and at the discretion of the physician. Too much s alt in the diet can lead to heart problems.
- Drinking more water can also help with healing, especially if the cause is dehydration.
- High-carbohydrate foods can help raise blood pressure. In addition, you can prevent it from falling by eating several small meals a day, whole grains, proteins, fruits and vegetables.
2. Compression stockings:
They are available over the counter from pharmacies and can be worn as a home remedy for low blood pressure. They can not only reduce pain and swelling in the legs, but also keep the blood from stagnating in the limbs.
3. Change in body position:
- Getting up from a prone position too quickly can cause a sudden drop in pressure. To prevent this, take your time, sit down before you stand up.
