What causes low blood pressure? SIX symptoms to look out for
Phillip Schofield gets blood pressure checked in Istanbul in 1991
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High blood pressure is known to be a significant health concern that can contribute to heart attacks and strokes, among other health problems. But low blood pressure can also be dangerous to someone’s health. Known as hypotension, excessively low blood pressure can cause several symptoms and health problems.
What are the symptoms of low blood pressure?
Low blood pressure does not always cause symptoms.
But according to the British Heart Foundation (BHF) website, some of the symptoms of low blood pressure (hypotension) include:
- Light-headedness or dizziness
- Fainting
- Blurred vision
- Weakness
- Difficulties in concentration or confusion
- Nausea (feeling sick)
Low blood pressure when standing up or changing position suddenly is known as postural hypotension.
Low blood pressure is considered to be a reading of less than 90/60mmHg.
Blood pressure can be checked by a practice nurse, a GP, a pharmacist or at home with a suitable blood pressure monitor.
Anyone who keeps getting symptoms such as dizziness and fainting should see their GP for further advice.
People aged 40 to 74 are also able to have their blood pressure checked every five years with the NHS Health Check.
What causes low blood pressure?
There are lots of potential causes of low blood pressure.
The NHS website explains: “Your blood pressure can vary depending on the time of day. It gradually increases throughout the day.
“What you’re doing and how you’re feeling can also affect it.”
A person may have low blood pressure because they are fit and healthy, while other people may have low blood pressure because they inherited it.
Low blood pressure can also develop as people get older, the NHS explains.
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Other potential causes of low blood pressure include:
- being pregnant
- some medical conditions, such as diabetes
- some medicines
According to the BHF, some of the medical conditions which may cause low blood pressure include endocrine and neurological disorders.
Some cardiac conditions, such as heart failure and arrhythmias, may also cause low blood pressure.
Low blood pressure may also occur after eating when blood flow increases to the digestive system.
The BHF explains this is most likely to occur in someone who has a disease of the nervous system like Parkinson’s.
Blood loss and dehydration can cause low blood pressure, while medical emergencies, such as septic shock and anaphylactic shock, can also cause dangerously low blood pressure.
Further information about the causes of low blood pressure can be found on the BHF website.
How is low blood pressure treated?
The treatment for low blood pressure will vary depending on the cause.
For example, a GP may recommend changing or altering medicine dosage if this is the cause of the low blood pressure.
A medical professional may also recommend some lifestyle changes, or some medicines may be prescribed, depending on the cause of the problem.
Anyone concerned about their blood pressure should speak to a medical professional.
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