About Low Blood Pressure

Hypotension is a condition when there is a persistent low blood pressure. In that the circulation pressure varies constantly. It rises to a peak, called the systolic pressure, at the height of the contraction of each heart beat, and to the diastolic pressure which is the lower level. The normal values for these are 120/80 with the upper figure denoting the systolic and the lower the diastolic pressure.

Hypotension usually shows values of the diastolic pressure lower than 90/60 mmHg or is low enough to cause symptoms. With low blood pressure there is inadequate flow to the brain and other vital organs. Light-headedness or fainting may then occur. A common type of hypotension is postural (also known as orthostatic) hypotension, in which standing suddenly leads to dizziness or fainting.

Within limits, the low pressure is good. Low pressure can arise also through diseases or health conditions like certain nervous disorders, heart problems, prolonged bed rest, severe blood loss, medicines, shock and even sepsis. Some time back, it was thought that low pressure was a major cause of depression and tiredness and there were ample cases of people getting the wrong kind of treatment because of this, particularly in the early 21st century. However, there is no evidence that low pressure causes either of these symptoms.

It is only in a minority of people with low blood pressure, ie, readings below 90/60 mmHg, where there is an underlying cause and treatment may be needed. However, if you have a low pressure and you also have symptoms of dizziness or faintness when standing up suddenly it would make sense to have your pressure checked. This drop in pressure that your system encounters when you stand up is called postural hypotension.

The adrenal glands located near to the kidneys produce a hormone called aldosterone. This hormone is very important in controlling the amount of salt in your body. In case of any damage to the adrenal glands there will be insufficient aldosterone in the system. This will lead to a loss of salt from your body which may cause low pressure. This condition is however very rare, but important that it should be understood, as it can easily be treated by replacing the missing hormones.

Blood Pressure Medication