Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is when a persons blood pressure reading is lower than expected. The normal blood pressure range is typically considered to be 90/60 mm Hg to 120/80 mm Hg. However, what is considered low blood pressure for one person might be normal for someone else. Low blood pressure might cause no noticeable symptoms, or it might cause dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea, fainting, fatigue, neck or back pain, headache, blurred vision, heart palpitations, or feelings that your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too hard or too fast.
The causes of low blood pressure range from dehydration to serious medical conditions. Some common causes of low blood pressure include:
- Dehydration
- Prolonged bed rest
- Pregnancy
- Certain medications
- Heart problems
- Endocrine problems
- Blood loss
- Severe infection
- Allergic reaction
- Nutritional deficiencies
It's important to find out what's causing low blood pressure so that it can be treated, if necessary. If you are experiencing symptoms of low blood pressure, it's important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
