When blood pressure is low, a condition called hypotension, it means the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries is lower than normal, generally below 90/60 mmHg. This can cause inadequate blood flow to vital organs such as the brain and heart, potentially leading to symptoms like dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, fatigue, blurred vision, and confusion. In severe cases, very low blood pressure can cause shock, which is life- threatening. Low blood pressure may be normal and harmless for some people, especially those who are physically fit. However, if it causes symptoms, it may indicate underlying health problems such as dehydration, heart issues, hormonal imbalances, or side effects of medication. There are different types of low blood pressure depending on the cause, including orthostatic hypotension (a drop when standing up), postprandial hypotension (a drop after eating), and neurally mediated hypotension (a drop after standing for long periods). Treatment depends on the cause and severity; mild cases may not need treatment, while severe hypotension might require fluids or medication to raise blood pressure. Immediate medical attention is needed for symptoms of shock or extreme low blood pressure.
