Low blood pressure is referred to as any blood pressure that is below the normal expected for an individual in a given environment. Low blood pressure is also referred to as hypotension.

There are two measurements of the blood pressure on artery walls: systolic and diastolic. Systolic is the pressure when the heart is contracting, and diastolic is the pressure between heartbeats. Both measurements record blood pressure in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). When noting the measurement, doctors write the systolic number above the diastolic one. 

Healthy blood pressure for most people is usually less than 120/80 mm Hg.

There is not an accepted standard for low blood pressure, but medical experts recognize a value of less than 90/60 mm Hg as being hypotensive.

 

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Symptoms of low blood pressure

Many people with low blood pressure have no symptoms. Hypotension is only concerning when the pumping pressure is not sufficient to deliver oxygenated blood to the organs. When this happens, people may experience symptoms such as:

• dizziness or lightheadedness
• nausea
• fainting
• dehydration and unusual thirst
• blurred vision
• fatigue
• rapid, shallow breathing
• cold, clammy, and pale skin
• depression
• lack of concentration

 

Causes of low blood pressure

Low blood pressure can be temporary or longer lasting. It can also indicate an underlying medical condition.

 

According to the American Heart Association (AHA) and the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the underlying causes of low blood pressure can include the following:

• aging
• prolonged bed rest
• certain medications
• side effects of high blood pressure medications
• diabetes
• pregnancy
• heart problems
• endocrine problems
• severe infection
• severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)
• decreases in blood volume from bleeding or dehydration
• neurally mediated hypotension
• nutritional deficiencies, such as in vitamin B12 and folic acid

Low Blood Pressure Treatment

 

More fluids. Dehydration decreases blood volume, causing blood pressure to drop. Staying hydrated is especially important when exercising.

Foods high in vitamin B-12. Too little vitamin B-12 can lead to a certain type of anemia, which can cause low blood pressure and fatigue. Foods high in B-12 include eggs, fortified cereals, animal meats, and nutritional yeast. (5 Warning Signs of Vitamin B12 Deficiency You Should Never Ignore)

Foods high in folate. Too little folate can also contribute to anemia. Examples of folate-rich foods include asparagus, beans, lentils, citrus fruits, leafy greens, eggs, and liver.

Salt. Salty foods can increase blood pressure. Try eating canned soup, smoked fish, cottage cheese, pickled items, and olives.

Caffeine. Coffee and caffeinated tea may temporarily spike blood pressure by stimulating the cardiovascular system and boosting your heart rate.

 

Tips for avoiding low blood pressure

Talk to your healthcare provider or a dietitian about healthy foods to include on your shopping list. There are ways you can modify daily behaviors that may help as well.

 

If you suspect you may have anemia, be sure to visit your healthcare provider for testing to pinpoint the type of anemia and the best treatment options.

 
Here are a few other changes you can make to your diet to help raise your blood pressure:
 

Eat small meals more frequently. Large meals may cause more dramatic drops in blood pressure, as your body works harder to digest larger meals.

Drink more water and limit alcohol. Dehydration lowers blood pressure.

In addition to altering your diet, you may also be able to raise your blood pressure by making these lifestyle changes:

• If you exercise outdoors in extreme heat, take frequent breaks and be sure to increase hydration efforts.
• Avoiding spending long amounts of time in saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms which can cause dehydration.
• Change body positions (such as standing up) slowly.
• Avoid prolonged bed rest.
• Wear compression stockings, which help blood move back upward from your legs and feet.

 

The above mentioned tips would help raise your blood pressure to a normal level.

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