Hypotension : The Condition Known As Low Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the measurement of the flow of blood against the blood vessel walls whenever the heart beats. If hypertension or high blood pressure is a severe medical problem, so is its counterpart, hypotension or low blood pressure. And this condition can cause lightheadedness, dizziness, and even fainting in patients suffering from it.

Hypotension signifies that there is not enough blood flowing through the vital organs of the body such as the brain and the heart. Normal blood pressure greatly differs from one person to another. But generally, the lowest a person’s blood pressure can go down is 90/60 mmHg.

The common causes of low blood pressure in a person are as follows: the medications he is taking, his pre-existing health problems, and his overall physical condition. Certain drugs that can cause hypotension are medicines taken after undergoing any type of surgery, anxiety-relieving drugs, diuretics, health medicines, and antidepressants. Doctors, to cure some other disease in the body, rightly prescribe most of these medicines. Unfortunately though, their side effects include hypotension.

The most usual health problems that can cause low blood pressure are heart failures and heart attacks. Because the heart controls the flow of blood to the rest of the body, any disruptions in its beating and function would cause irregularity in the blood pressure. But health problems like dehydration, anaphylaxis, trauma, and diabetes can cause hypotension as well. However, certain studies have shown that excessive alcohol intake also contributes to the onset of low blood pressure in a person.

The diagnosis of hypotension is done through blood tests like CBC and blood differential. Non-invasive heart tests such as ECG may also be performed. Some doctors requests x-rays of the abdomen or the chest to see whether the blood pressure in the patient is low. Likewise, urinalysis is also performed.

To treat hypotension, doctors usually prescribe a certain therapy. Included in the regime are ample bed rest and the reduction of too much rigorous exercises. And as much as possible, people with hypotension should be aided with their regular day-to-day activities.

If hypotension causes a patient to faint or become unconscious, he has to be taken immediately to the hospital. But to prevent instances like this, patient has to monitor what he feels and call his doctor for any instances outside the ordinary. Dizziness, chest pains, palpitations, fever, back pains, and stiff necks are possible indications that a change in blood pressure is happening. Diarrhea and vomiting, coupled with dark stools can also be a cause of alarm. Consult a doctor as soon as possible whenever these symptoms show.

People with low blood pressure should also be aware that they couldn’t take any medications without asking their doctor about it first. Their condition is considered delicate and a handful of over-the-counter medicines can cause their blood pressure to drop unexpectedly. And for some people, a drastic change in blood pressure results in a medical emergency. So it goes without saying that people with hypotension should monitor themselves carefully and watch what they do so that their blood pressure won’t fall down unnecessarily.

Consequently, during an emergency situation, doctors first assess the damage caused by the episode of hypotension that hit the patient before they perform any treatment. Next, the patient’s medical history is checked and a physical examination is conducted.

Nurses are ordered to regularly check the patient’s vital signs. This includes their temperatue, rate of breathing, pulse, and of course, blood pressure. With these data, doctors can proceed with the medication therapy necessary for the patient.

Hypotension may seem to be a minor heart problem. But just the same, it is a disease that affects the heart. And if it is left untreated, it may get worse and would eventually cause multiple complications to the heart.