What To Do For Low Blood Pressure

What Can Cause Low Blood Pressure

Factors that can cause low blood pressure include:

• Medical conditions like heart problems, hormonal problems, septic shock, neurological disorders, anemia etc.
• Dehydration
• Certain medications for instance, some antidepressants or beta blockers prescribed for heart conditions
• Blood pressure tends to drop during the first twenty-four weeks of pregnancy.34

Boost Your B12 Intake

Vitamin B12 performs a critical role in helping the body produce healthy red blood cells. Lack of this important vitamin can result in anemia, which lowers blood pressure and can result in excessive bleeding as well as organ and nerve damage. Foods that are rich in vitamin B12 include eggs, chicken, fish like salmon and tuna, and low-fat dairy products.

What Is Low Blood Pressure/hypotension

Low blood pressure or hypotension is a condition where the systolic and diastolic pressure falls below 90 and 60 respectively. Blood pressure is usually measured in millimetres of mercury, and normal blood pressure is usually slightly less than 120/80 mm Hg.

To have low blood pressure is not always a concern however, chronic hypotension can cause a lack of blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness, blackouts or loss of consciousness, and may even be life-threatening in severe cases.

More often, low blood pressure is a symptom of a different concern, such as plaque build-up, a heart disorder or aging related medical conditions, making it necessary to pay attention to signs of low blood pressure in its initial stages.

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How To Increase Low Blood Pressure Naturally & Quickly: 11 Tips

Low blood pressure is a serious problem like hypertension. How blood pressure may inflict untold damage to the body and mind. It causes symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, fatigue, difficulty breathing, nausea, palpitations, blurred vision and cold, clammy skin. The condition may be caused by issues such as dehydration, nutritional deficiencies, prolonged bed rest, heart problems, pregnancy, a reduction in blood volume, neurological conditions and endocrine disorders. Certain medications such as beta blockers, diuretics, antidepressants, alpha blockers, and others may also lead to the problem of low blood pressure. You can try several simple ways to alleviate symptoms. In this article, VKool.com will show you 11 solutions on how to increase low blood pressure naturally and quickly. The writing collected a list of safe and effective solutions for treating low blood pressure from reliable sources. However, it is not intended to give medical advice and it is solely for the informational purpose. Keep reading this writing to learn these 11 solutions on how to increase low blood pressure in more detail!

What Procedures And Tests Diagnose Low Blood Pressure

In some people, particularly relatively healthy ones, symptoms of weakness, dizziness, and fainting raise the suspicion of low blood pressure. In others, an event often associated with low blood pressure, for example, a heart attack, has occurred to cause the symptoms.

Measuring blood pressure in both the lying and standing positions usually is the first step in diagnosing low blood pressure. In patients with symptomatic low blood pressure, there often is a marked drop in blood pressure upon standing, and patients may even develop orthostatic symptoms. The heart rate often increases. The goal is to identify the cause of the low blood pressure. Sometimes the causes are readily apparent . At other times, the cause may be identified by testing:

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Low Blood Pressure And Pregnancy

A drop in blood pressure is common during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. The circulatory system starts to expand, and hormonal changes cause your blood vessels to dilate.

If you experience low blood pressure symptoms, let your OB-GYN know. You may need to pay more attention to your hydration during this time.

Pregnancy-related low blood pressure usually goes away later on in the pregnancy or shortly after delivery.

Its important to have your blood pressure checked and monitored during pregnancy to eliminate any underlying causes for it, such as anemia or an ectopic pregnancy.

Talk to your healthcare provider about your overall activity level and dietary habits to determine what changes, if any, you should make.

Who Is Affected By Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can affect people of all ages, although it is more common in older people who are frail or bedridden. Pregnant women and older adults are more likely to have orthostatic hypotension. Children and young adults are most likely to experience neurally mediated hypotension, but they often outgrow it.

Hypotension commonly affects people who:

• Are taking certain medications that cause low blood pressure.
• Have hormonal imbalances or vitamin deficiencies.
• Also have heart problems or liver disease.

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What To Do If Your Blood Pressure Is Too Low

Drops in blood pressure occur when less blood reaches the brain than usual and, therefore, oxygenation is also lower. Although some people have hypotension, drops in blood pressure or faintingnormally occur in a timely manner, being more common in summer. It is necessary to know what should be done if a person is in this situation, so on OneHowTo we explain what to do if your pressure is too low.

When a drop in blood pressure occurs, symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo, nausea, blurred vision, weakness, fainting… are presented. At the appearance of the first signs it will be necessary that the person suffering from hypotension lies down on the floor with legs raised. Thus, they will help blood to flow more easily get to the brain.

Keep the person with their legs about 45 degrees to the ground for a few minutes to facilitate oxygenation, which has been reduced due to the lipothymy or drop in blood pressure.

It will also be convenient to loosen the clothing of the person who has suffered from a drop in blood pressure, to facilitate breathing. You may need to fan them and it will be essential to avoid crowds around them.

If conscious, give them a sugary or caffeinated drink -such as coke or some sweets to revitalize them and increase their blood glucose level.

If you want to read similar articles to What to do if your blood pressure is too low, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.

How Is The Cause Of Low Blood Pressure Diagnosed

To diagnose your condition, your doctor or licensed healthcare practitioner will ask you several questions related to your low blood pressure including:

• When did you first notice your low blood pressure?

• What seems to bring it on?

• Does anything make it improve?

• Do you have any other symptoms?

• Do you have any other medical problems?

• What medications are you taking?

• Do you drink alcohol or use any illicit drugs?

Your doctor will also perform a physical exam and check your blood pressure. If the results are in the low blood pressure range, your doctor may recommend testing including:

• Blood and urine tests to check for problems like , diabetes, hormone problems, or nutritional deficiencies

• ECG to check for electrical abnormalities in the heart

• Title table test to check how your body responds to changes in position

• X-ray of the chest to check the size and shape of your heart

It is not always possible to diagnose an underlying cause or condition. If the problem persists and your provider is unable to determine a cause, seeking a second opinion may give you more information and answers.

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How Does Blood Pressure Work

During relaxation of the heart , the left ventricle of the heart fills with blood returning from the lungs. The left ventricle then contracts and pumps blood into the arteries . The blood pressure in the arteries during contraction of the ventricle is higher because blood is being actively ejected into the arteries. It is lower during relaxation of the ventricle when no blood is being ejected into the arteries. The pulse we feel when we place our fingers over an artery is caused by the contraction of the left ventricle and the ejection of blood.

Blood pressure is determined by two factors:

The amount of blood pumped by the left ventricle of the heart into the arteries, and

The resistance to the flow of blood caused by the walls of the arterioles .

Generally, blood pressure tends to be higher if more blood is pumped into the arteries or if the arterioles are narrow and/or stiff. Narrow and/or stiff arterioles, by resisting the flow of blood, increase blood pressure. Arterioles may become narrower when the muscles surrounding them contract. Arterioles may become stiff and narrow when older patients develop atherosclerosis.

Blood pressure tends to be lower if less blood is being pumped into the arteries or if the arterioles are larger and more flexible and, therefore, have less resistance to the flow of blood.

The heart rate increases and the forcefulness of the heart’s contractions increase, pumping more blood through the heart.

When Should You See A Doctor For Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure is not always a reason for concern. It can be normal for certain people. If you do not have symptoms, it may only require monitoring during your annual checkup.

If you get dizzy or lightheaded once in a while, keep track of the circumstances. People with low blood pressure may find they get dizzy after a hot bath, being in the sun a long time, or other situations. Mention this to your doctor and take precautions to avoid falls and other problems. Try drinking more water or have a sports drink or electrolyte replacement drink. Including salt in your diet can help as well. Your doctor can help you find the right balance for you.

or go to your nearest emergency room for potentially serious hypotension symptoms including:

• , fainting, or loss of consciousness

• Falls that result in potential injuries

• Heart attack or stroke symptoms

• Pale, cold or

• Problems breathing, , or breathing that is rapid or shallow

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat

• Uncontrollable bleeding

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What Can You Do To Help Relieve Symptoms Of Low Blood Pressure

Depending on the type of low blood pressure you have, you may be able to relieve some of your symptoms by:

• Eating a healthy diet with fewer carbohydrates and smaller meals.
• Drinking more water and avoiding alcohol.
• Getting up slowly after youve been sitting or lying down.
• Focusing on breathing a few times before you change position.
• Wearing compression stockings.

Low Blood Pressure Chart

Considering low blood pressure chart in context of women, for men, during pregnancy and by age

Low blood pressure is defined as blood pressure that is below the normal expected for a person in a given environment. You may look at the blood pressure definition for a broader definition of blood pressure. The following low blood pressure chart is applicable to adult men and women. This is because both adult male and females are expected to have a similar normal blood pressure on average of 120/80mmHg.

This chart in discussion here may not be efficiently applicable on children because infants and children specifically have significantly lower blood pressure compared to adult men and women.

High blood pressure which is also known as hypertension is often presented with the aid of a high blood pressure chart showing the various stages of hypertension congruent with particular blood pressure numbers. Several challenges present when attempting to do the same for low blood pressure in the form of a low blood pressure chart.

Chief among these challenges is the widely agreed and understood relativity of a low blood pressure condition. The chart above summarizes known data of low blood pressure readings in some individuals and accompanying symptoms of low blood pressure.

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Circulatory Problems In Pregnancy

Many women suffer from circulatory problems during pregnancy. A pregnant womans cardiovascular system changes significantly, especially in the first six months. Under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the blood volume increases, the heart rate increases and the muscles of the blood vessels relax, which causes the vessels to widen. Thus, low blood pressure and circulatory weakness occur more frequently and for fewer reasons.

Slightly low blood pressure is also harmless in pregnant women. Due to the special situation during pregnancy, affected women should be very careful to avoid falls. With cardiovascular training and behavioral changes, pregnant women can also stabilize their circulation and enjoy the pregnancy without worries.

How Do You Treat Low Blood Pressure

When people are otherwise healthy and low blood pressure doesnt cause symptoms, no treatment is necessary. Even if symptoms occur occasionally or are mild, doctors may not recommend treatment. This is because low blood pressure is generally a healthy thing for your heart.

When people have concerning symptoms, treatment will depend on the cause. If medications are causing the problem, your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to another drug. For other underlying causes, treating them may help resolve your symptoms.

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Prevention And Management Of Low Diastolic Blood Pressure

There are some things you can do to help prevent and manage low diastolic pressure.

• Try to keep your salt intake to between 1.5 and 4 grams per day. An ideal number is probably about 3.5 grams. You can do this by reading food labels and avoiding added salt in your diet.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and include whole grains. For protein, stick to lean meats and fish. Avoid fatty foods.
• Drink enough fluids and avoid alcohol, which can increase your risk for dehydration.
• Stay physically active and start an exercise program. Ask your doctor what type and amount of exercise is safe for you.
• Maintain a healthy weight. If youre overweight, ask your doctor to help you with a safe weight loss plan.
• Dont smoke.

Home Remedies For Raising Low Blood Pressure

Lifestyle changes may help some people with low blood pressure including:

• Avoiding standing for long periods of time or spending long periods in hot, humid conditions

• Changing positions slowly and deliberately

• Drinking caffeine in the morning, if it is safe for you, but avoid it for the rest of the day

• Eating several small meals throughout the day, which can help even out blood pressure and blood sugar

• Exercising on a regular basis, including both strength and cardio activities

• Limiting alcohol, which is a vasodilatorit relaxes blood vesselsand can contribute to

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Should You Use Herbal Remedies To Treat Low Blood Pressure

Certain herbs like licorice18, arnica 19, guarana20, and Asian ginseng21 have been known to increase blood pressure. However, do keep in mind that these herbs may have significant side effects and may also raise your blood pressure to undesirable levels. High blood pressure, in turn, is associated with serious conditions like heart failure, kidney failure, and stroke. So, on balance, it might not be advisable to use herbal remedies to raise your blood pressure. In case you are considering it, get your doctors go-ahead and have them under the guidance of an expert practitioner.

References

Will Your Doctor Treat Low Blood Pressure

You will likely get treated for low blood pressure only if it is causing symptoms or if your blood pressure drops suddenly. Treatment depends on your symptoms, how severe they are, and the reasons for the low blood pressure.

Your doctor may have you:

• Add more salt to your diet.
• Get fluid through an intravenous line if you are very dehydrated.
• Change or stop medicines that lower your blood pressure.
• Take medicine to treat the problem that is causing low blood pressure. For example, you may need antibiotics to treat infection or medicines to stop vomiting or diarrhea.

Be sure to talk with your doctor before you add more salt to your diet or make any changes in your medicines.

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Symptoms Of Low Blood Pressure

Most doctors will only consider chronically low blood pressure as dangerous if it causes noticeable signs and symptoms, such as:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Dehydration and unusual thirst
• Dehydration can sometimes cause blood pressure to drop. However, dehydration does not always cause low blood pressure. Fever, vomiting, severe diarrhea, overuse of diuretics and strenuous exercise can all lead to dehydration, a potentially serious condition in which your body loses more water than you take in. Even mild dehydration can cause weakness, dizziness and fatigue.
• Lack of concentration
• Depression

What Can I Do For Myself

There are other things you can do for yourself to help with your symptoms.

• Wear supportive elastic stockings . They put extra pressure on your legs which helps to improve circulation and raise your blood pressure. For some people this can be enough, but speak to your GP first because they arent suitable for everyone.
• Stand up slowly from sitting or lying down. You can try other simple movements to get the blood flowing before you stand up, such as straightening and bending your legs.
• Avoid standing for long periods of time.
• Drink enough water throughout the day, around 2 litres, so you dont get dehydrated.
• Eat little and often throughout the day. This avoids low blood pressure after eating.

Read more about how .

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Living With Low Blood Pressure

Medicines and lifestyle changes can help you live safely with chronic low blood pressure. Your doctor can recommend steps you can take to manage your low blood pressure. These actions can help control the condition:

Drink more water. This can help avoid dehydration.

Medicines and lifestyle changes can help you live safely with chronic low blood pressure.

Avoid alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are dehydrating, and alcohol changes how medicines work in your body.

Slow down. Take your time when standing up. If lying down, sit up first. Then wiggle your feet and move your legs. This will increase circulation and get your heart rate up so that you dont feel lightheaded when you stand up.

If your medicine and lifestyle changes do not reduce your low blood pressure symptoms, talk with your doctor about other changes you can make.