Symptoms of Hypotension, and When Should You see a Doctor?

In medical terms, hypotension is defined as when blood pressure levels fall below 90/60, but this is not always a problem. There are people whose blood pressure is naturally low without any symptoms or complications. However, hypotension becomes a worrying condition when it is accompanied by symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and others. (1)

Symptoms of hypotension

Low blood pressure is considered a worrying condition when it is accompanied by symptoms such as: (2)

• Dizziness or vertigo.
• Exhaustion.
• Nausea.
• Syncope.
• Disorganized thinking.
• Headache.
• Blurred vision.
• Neck or back pain.
• Tachycardia, fluttering, or palpitations.

An Important Information: Although hypotension may not always be a cause for concern, a sudden drop or its association with a certain health condition is what requires attention. This happens because low pressure can deprive vital organs, such as the heart and brain, of getting enough oxygen, leading to the symptoms we mentioned previously, and even the possibility of sudden shock or stroke. (3)

Sudden drop in blood pressure when standing (Orthostatic hypotension)

This type of hypotension occurs when the body's position suddenly changes, such as getting out of bed or a chair, and is accompanied by the previous symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, etc. It is not worrisome, as the symptoms quickly disappear, and the pressure returns to its normal level.

This type is known as orthostatic hypotension, and occurs due to aging, the use of certain medications, or other reasons. (4)

When should you consult a doctor?

If you experience any of the symptoms of hypotension, such as recurring episodes of dizziness or syncope, it is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible; To find out the cause of your problem and treat it. (3)

You must go to the emergency room immediately if you develop symptoms of shock as a result of severe hypotension, such as: (3)

• Suddenly feeling cold, and the body is sweating.
• Breathe quickly.
• Accelerated or weak heartbeat.
• Bluishness of the lips or under the nails; Because of the lack of blood flow to it.

Ways to raise low blood pressure

If, according to the doctor’s assessment, it turns out that your blood pressure is naturally low without symptoms, there is no need to worry or make any changes, while if you are complaining of any of the previous symptoms, the doctor will first identify the problem and treat it accordingly, for example: if the cause of the drop in blood pressure is a certain medication being taken, the medication or its dosage will be changed, and so on. (4)

There are also some things you can do to raise your blood pressure and relieve symptoms, including: (4)

• Increase salt in your food a little for example, eat a handful of salty nuts or a small piece of pickle when you feel symptoms, but check with your doctor first, especially if you have a heart problem or other health condition.

• Drink enough water and fluids, about 2 liters per day, unless you have a heart or kidney condition, you must adhere to your doctor’s instructions about the amount of fluids allowed to you.

• Wear compression stockings, which puts direct pressure on your legs, forcing blood flow upward, thus improving pressure levels.

• Gradually get up from the chair or bed for example, you can move and flex your feet first while sitting, and then try to get up slowly.

• Eat small meals divided throughout the day, instead of 3 fatty meals; this is to prevent a sudden drop in blood pressure after eating.

References

1. British Heart Foundation - Low blood pressure
2. American Heart Association - Low Blood Pressure - When Blood Pressure Is Too Low
3. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute - Low Blood Pressure
4. Blood Pressure UK - What is low blood pressure?