Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) Treatment in Gurgaon, Delhi, NCR, India
What is Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a condition where the blood pressure in your arteries is lower than normal. Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps. Normal blood pressure in a healthy adult is generally considered to be around 120/80 mm Hg. However, in case of hypotension, blood pressure falls below 90/60 mm Hg.
While some individuals may experience no symptoms of hypotension, there can be a range of issues like dizziness or fainting. Dangerous low blood pressure for a woman or man can depend on their individual health and baseline blood pressure. It is crucial to understand that a low blood pressure range for one person might be perfectly normal for another.
Different Types of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension):
There are several types of hypotension, each with its own underlying cause:
This is a serious and life-threatening form where the blood pressure drops significantly and can lead to shock.
Orthostatic Hypotension (Postural Hypotension)
This is a sudden drop in blood pressure when you stand up from a sitting or lying position. Orthostatic hypotension causes can include dehydration, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions. Postural hypotension symptoms are often immediate and can lead to falls.
This occurs after eating, with blood pressure dropping 1-2 hours after a meal. It's more common in older adults and people with conditions like diabetes or Parkinson's disease.
Neurally Mediated Hypotension:
This type of hypotension happens after standing for long periods, leading to a drop in blood pressure due to a miscommunication between the heart and the brain.
Multiple System Atrophy with Orthostatic Hypotension:
This is a rare, progressive neurological disorder that affects the autonomic nervous system, leading to severe orthostatic hypotension.
What Are The Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure?
Low blood pressure symptoms differ in men and women which can sometimes mimic other medical conditions. Signs of low blood pressure can be subtle and easily missed which makes accurate diagnosis important. It's crucial to be aware of these signs and symptoms of hypotension and seek a doctor’s consultation if they are persistent or severe. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Fainting (syncope) or near-fainting
Blurred vision
Nausea
Fatigue
Lack of concentration
Cold, clammy skin
Rapid, shallow breathing
Chest pain
Headache (low blood pressure headache)
What Causes Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)?
Numerous factors can contribute to low blood pressure. In females, low blood pressure is sometimes a result of hormonal fluctuations or specific health conditions. Understanding the reasons for low blood pressure is crucial for effective treatment. Some common causes of low blood pressure include:
Certain medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers, and some antidepressants, can lower blood pressure.
Heart failure, heart valve problems, and bradycardia (slow heart rate) can affect blood pressure.
Conditions like hypothyroidism, Addison's disease, and diabetes can contribute to low blood pressure.
Parkinson's disease and other neurological conditions can affect blood pressure regulation.
Lack of vitamin B12, folate, or iron can lead to low blood pressure.
Trauma or internal bleeding can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
Severe infections can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Additionally, several risk factors can also increase the chances of developing low blood pressure such as:
Older adults are more prone to orthostatic hypotension.
It's common for blood pressure to decrease during the first two trimesters of pregnancy. Low blood pressure pregnancy requires careful monitoring.
Loss of fluids can decrease blood volume, leading to hypotension.
Extended periods of inactivity can weaken the cardiovascular system and lead to low blood pressure.
How Is Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) Diagnosed?
A hypotension test may involve checking blood pressure at different times of the day and in different positions. The doctor considers hypotension risk factors, such as age, certain medications, and existing medical conditions, during diagnosis to understand the severity and know the primary reason for hypotension. Furthermore, diagnosing low blood pressure involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and various tests like:
Blood pressure measurement:
Checking the blood pressure is the most basic test to diagnose hypotension.
Blood tests can check for anemia, electrolyte imbalances, and other underlying conditions.
Ultrasounds and X-rays can be used to look at the heart and other organs to rule out issues contributing to hypotension.
An electrocardiogram (ECG) can assess the electrical activity of the heart. An echocardiogram can evaluate the structure and function of the heart.
A tilt table test can help diagnose orthostatic hypotension.
Low Blood Pressure Treatment (Hypotension Treatment)
Treatment for low blood pressure depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms. Doctors often suggest lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, or in severe cases, certain medications to manage the symptoms and improve quality of life. In case of hypotension due to medical illness, treatment aims to cure the disease for overall health improvement.
Lifestyle changes:
Drink plenty of fluids to maintain blood volume and prevent dehydration.
Large meals can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Smaller meals help reduce this risk.
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can cause dehydration and lower blood pressure.
Wear Compression Stockings
These can help reduce the pooling of blood in your legs, thus helping to maintain blood pressure.
Learn about your emotions and stress triggers to manage stress. This can help regulate blood pressure.
When transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing, do so slowly to prevent dizziness.
Medical Treatment
In some cases, medications like fludrocortisone or midodrine may be prescribed to increase blood pressure and keep them in a normal range.
Addressing Underlying Conditions
Treating any underlying health problems, such as thyroid issues, can help normalize blood pressure, treat hypotension, and manage the symptoms associated with it.
Complications of Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)
While many people with low blood pressure experience no problems, severe hypotension can lead to several complications. Severe hypotension can result in mild to moderate health risks and may require immediate medical attention. Complications of hypotension include:
Fall and fall-related injuries
Dizziness and fainting can increase the risk of falls.
Severely low blood pressure can lead to shock, a life-threatening condition.
In some cases, prolonged hypotension can contribute to heart problems or stroke.
Low Blood Pressure Prevention (Hypotension Prevention)
Preventing low blood pressure often involves addressing the underlying causes and adopting healthy lifestyle habits:
Drink plenty of fluids, especially in hot weather or during exercise.
A healthy diet supports overall cardiovascular health.
Manage underlying medical conditions
Controlling conditions like diabetes and heart disease can help prevent hypotension.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption
Limit alcohol intake to avoid dehydration.
Regular physical activity can help improve cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation.
Routine medical checkups can help identify and manage potential risk factors for low blood pressure.
Choose Artemis Hospitals For Comprehensive Hypotension Treatment in Gurgaon
If you experience symptoms of low blood pressure, contact Artemis Hospitals to book an appointment with some of the best Internal Medicine specialists in Gurgaon for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.
To book an appointment with an internal medicine specialist at Artemis Hospitals, call our customer care at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91 9599285476. You can also schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download and register on the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices.
Reviewed By Dr. Arpit Jain
Head – Internal Medicine
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is considered a dangerously low blood pressure for a woman?
A blood pressure reading below 90/60 mmHg can be dangerous for women if it causes symptoms like dizziness, fainting, or fatigue.
Can low blood pressure be cured?
While low blood pressure can often be managed with lifestyle changes and medication, there is no definitive cure. Treatment focuses on preventing complications.
Does drinking coffee help lower blood pressure?
Yes, coffee can temporarily raise blood pressure due to the caffeine content, but it should be consumed in moderation as it can lead to dehydration.
Can low blood pressure be a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, low blood pressure is common during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters, due to hormonal changes.
Is low diastolic blood pressure dangerous?
A low diastolic blood pressure (below 60 mmHg) can be a concern as it indicates the heart is not filling properly with blood, which can lead to poor organ perfusion.
What are the symptoms of orthostatic hypotension?
Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting upon standing up quickly.
How does age affect low blood pressure?
As people age, the risk of developing low blood pressure increases due to changes in blood vessels and heart function.
