Dirk Gaines, MD
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Otros Temas de Salud
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Hypotension
On the opposite spectrum of high blood pressure (as
discussed in last month’s issue) is low blood pressure, also
known as hypotension. Classically, low blood pressure has
been defined as systolic pressure (the top number) less than
90 or a diastolic pressure (the bottom number) less than 60.
However, some people may experience symptoms of low
blood pressure despite having pressures in the normal
range.
So what are some common symptoms of low blood
pressure? Some people do not experience any symptoms.
Others may feel dizziness or lightheadedness when going
from a sitting to standing position. This is called orthostatic
hypotension. The dizziness or lightheadedness can be so
severe that some may faint. Prolonged hypotension can
affect blood flow to the organs in our body, leading to
symptoms related to the organ that is being affected, with
the brain being the most affected. A natural reflex our body
does to prevent this is fainting. Instead of our heart having to
pump blood to our brain against the force of gravity, fainting
makes the body lie down, making it easier for our heart to
pump blood to the brain. Low blood pressure that persists
despite this natural reflex can lead to severe organ damage
and can require hospitalization.
There are many causes of low blood pressure.
Medications used to treat hypertension (high blood
pressure) can cause low blood pressure if the dose is too
high. It is important to let your doctor know if you are
experiencing symptoms related to your blood pressure
medications as they can adjust the dose or change the
medication. Not eating enough food or fluids can also cause
hypotension. In the elderly, low blood pressure is a common
problem which can be worsened by eating large meals.
Those with poorly controlled diabetes can experience low
blood pressure, especially when going from a sitting to
standing position, due the damaging effects of high blood
sugars on the nerves in our body.
Treatment for low blood pressure is targeted at
addressing the source. This may involve adjusting blood
pressure medications, improving diabetes control or
ensuring adequate food and fluid intake. It is important not to
over compensate low food and fluid intake as this can lead
to other medical problems. For the elderly, it is important to
take their time going from a sitting to standing position to
allow their body to equilibrate to ensure adequate blood flow
to the brain. In this same population, eating smaller and
more frequent meals can lessens the effects of postprandial
hypotension, which is low blood pressure after eating a large
meal. If despite all of these efforts a person still experiences
symptoms of low blood pressure, a provider may prescribe
a medication that can help raise blood pressure.
To summarize, low blood pressure (hypotension) is
classically defined as a systolic blood pressure less than 90
(the top number) or a diastolic pressure less than 60 (the
bottom number). Common symptoms of low blood pressure
include lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting. Some causes
of low blood pressure include medications, diabetes, old
age and low food/liquid intake. Treatment is often targeted
at addressing the cause. If symptoms still persist, there are
medications that can help raise blood pressure. Talk to your
medical provider if you have any concerns about low blood
pressure.
Disclaimer: The content in this article is not intended to be a
substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or
treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health care provider with any questions you may
have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard
professional medical advice or delay seeking medical
attention because of something you have read on this
publication. Reliance on information in this article is at your
own risk. Do not hesitate to call 911 in the event of a health
or psychiatric emergency.
If you have a question send it to: email:
bilingualpress@latinewszone.com Mail: Dr. Gaines, P.O.
Box 48183 Spokane, WA 99228