Health & Life

What is Low Blood Pressure? 9 Effective Ways to Prevent It.

Sudden drops in blood pressure can lead to a host of health concerns, including an increased heart rate, dizziness, fainting, and the more severe risk of a stroke. So, what is considered low blood pressure, and how can we prevent these potential health risks? Find out more as we delve deeper into this important topic.

Administrator

2 June, 2024

Note: The information in this article is for reference only and should not be used for self-diagnosis. Please consult a medical professional for any health issues.

1 What is Low Blood Pressure?

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of arteries as it circulates through the body. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

Blood pressure is represented by two numbers:

Systolic pressure: The pressure in the arteries when the heart beats and pumps blood.
Diastolic pressure: The pressure in the arteries when the heart rests between beats.

Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg (systolic/diastolic). When the systolic pressure is less than 90 mmHg and diastolic pressure is less than 60 mmHg, it means your blood pressure is lower than normal. Note that these measurements are taken when the body is at rest.

Data shows that blood pressure is lower than normal.

Low blood pressure can stem from various causes:

Dehydration
Allergic reactions, anaphylaxis
Adverse reactions to certain medications: diuretics, anesthetics, etc.
Chronic venous insufficiency due to prolonged standing
Internal bleeding caused by acute infections, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, or angina pectoris due to acute coronary syndrome

People with low blood pressure often experience symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, nausea, and lack of focus. These symptoms are more pronounced when they suddenly stand up or change positions.

Low blood pressure can cause fatigue and dizziness.

Extremely low blood pressure poses risks of confusion, cold hands and feet, pale skin, rapid and shallow breathing, and weak and rapid pulse.

Low blood pressure is especially dangerous for the elderly and people with chronic illnesses as the blood flow to the heart, brain, and other vital organs is compromised.

To monitor your blood pressure and take timely care of it, you should invest in a home blood pressure monitor. Nowadays, there are many compact and easy-to-use devices available, such as the Microlife B6 Advance Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor and the Kachi MK-293 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor.

Microlife B6 Advance Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor

2 How to Prevent Low Blood Pressure

Regularly Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Use a Blood Pressure Monitor to Check for Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can affect anyone. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly monitor your blood pressure to make necessary adjustments to your diet, sleep, and seek medical advice to prevent the condition from worsening.

Having a home blood pressure monitor is essential, especially for households with elderly individuals or pregnant women.

Kachi MK-293 Automatic Blood Pressure Monitor with Intellisense technology for fast and accurate readings.

Pay Attention to Unusual Physical Symptoms

Initially, low blood pressure symptoms may be mild, such as dizziness and nausea, and can be mistaken for fatigue. Over time, however, the condition can become more severe.

Therefore, it is important to be mindful of any unusual physical symptoms and not ignore the early signs.

Closely monitor any unusual physical symptoms.

When blood pressure suddenly drops, it is recommended to lay the person down in a well-ventilated area, with their head slightly lowered and legs elevated. Then, give them ginger tea, coffee, or a piece of chocolate to increase their circulatory volume.

Avoid Staying Up Late

Staying up late and not getting enough sleep negatively impact the body’s recovery process, including the cardiovascular system. Without adequate rest, the heart works harder, leading to cardiovascular disorders, a primary cause of blood pressure-related issues.

Staying up late is harmful to your health.

Therefore, it is crucial to establish a healthy routine and aim for 8 hours of sleep per night to maintain your well-being and keep your mind sharp and relaxed.

Stay Warm During Sleep

Low blood pressure affects the blood flow to the skin, impacting the body’s ability to retain moisture. As a result, individuals with low blood pressure often experience numbness, cold sensations, and poor cold tolerance.

Keeping warm during sleep, especially in colder months, is one way to prevent low blood pressure and improve sleep quality.

Limit Sun Exposure During Hot Weather

Direct exposure to sunlight stimulates sweat glands, increasing secretion and metabolic rate. This leads to significant fluid loss, reduced blood volume, and increased risk to the heart and brain, potentially causing sudden drops in blood pressure.

Individuals with low blood pressure should limit sun exposure during hot weather. Additionally, it is crucial to stay hydrated, especially in the summer. This is the most immediate and effective solution to prevent low blood pressure.

Avoid Sudden and Intense Physical Activity

After waking up or sitting for an extended period, avoid standing up suddenly to prevent dizziness, fainting, or blurred vision. Instead, relax your body, stand up slowly, and find a comfortable position.

Intense physical activity can lead to dizziness and low blood pressure.

If you experience low blood pressure symptoms after standing, try to stand up straight, breathe evenly, or elevate one leg by leaning against a wall or resting it on a chair and bending forward. This will encourage blood flow from the legs back to the heart.

Maintain Mild Physical Activity, Such as Walking

Mild physical activity offers numerous benefits to the body. Exercise improves blood circulation, reducing blood pooling in specific areas and alleviating low blood pressure symptoms.

Choose an activity that suits your physical condition, such as walking, running, cycling, or swimming, and try to maintain a daily routine.

Sleep with a Low Pillow

Blood pressure can drop during sleep. Doctors often recommend that individuals with low blood pressure sleep with a slightly elevated pillow, ideally at a 10-20 degree angle. This position reduces the risk of low blood pressure during sleep and upon waking up.

For Individuals Aged 50 and Above, Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring is Essential

The elderly are more susceptible to blood pressure disorders. Therefore, if you have older adults aged 50 and above in your family, regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial.

Maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding strong emotions such as fear, sadness, and anxiety are also important measures to prevent blood pressure issues in older adults.

Frequently asked questions

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a condition where the blood pressure in your arteries is abnormally low. It is typically defined as a systolic blood pressure (the top number) of less than 90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or a diastolic blood pressure (the bottom number) of less than 60 mm Hg.

There are several potential causes of low blood pressure, including dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, nutrient deficiencies, heart problems, and endocrine problems. Additionally, certain medications, such as alpha-blockers, beta-blockers, and diuretics, can contribute to hypotension.

Symptoms of low blood pressure can vary but often include dizziness or lightheadedness, fainting, nausea, blurred vision, cold and clammy skin, rapid and shallow breathing, and concentration difficulties. In some cases, hypotension can also lead to more severe symptoms such as chest pain, irregular heartbeat, and shock.

To prevent low blood pressure and maintain a healthy blood flow, it is important to stay hydrated by drinking enough fluids, especially in hot weather or during illness with fever or vomiting. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in nutrients, such as vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron, is also crucial. Regular physical activity and managing stress through relaxation techniques can further help regulate blood pressure.

Besides staying hydrated and adopting a nutritious diet, it is advisable to avoid sudden changes in body position, especially when getting up from lying down or sitting. Wear compression stockings to improve blood flow and avoid prolonged bed rest. Reducing alcohol intake and avoiding heavy lifting can also help manage hypotension.

Treating low blood pressure at home involves similar approaches to prevention. Stay well-hydrated, eat a healthy and nutrient-rich diet, and incorporate more salt into your meals to raise your blood pressure. Additionally, consider drinking herbal teas or energy drinks that contain natural stimulants like ginseng to give you a boost.

It is important to seek medical attention if you experience severe or persistent symptoms of low blood pressure, such as frequent dizziness or fainting spells, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or difficulty breathing. Also, consult a doctor if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications that may contribute to hypotension.

Yes, certain natural remedies can help manage low blood pressure. Herbal remedies like licorice root, ginseng, and rosemary can help stimulate the body and raise blood pressure. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements, as they may interact with certain medications or health conditions.

Doctors typically diagnose low blood pressure through a physical examination and a review of your medical history. They may measure your blood pressure in different positions, such as sitting, standing, and lying down, to assess for orthostatic hypotension. Blood tests and urine tests may also be ordered to check for underlying conditions.