Low blood pressure (hypotension)

Using relaxation techniques and meditation to reduce blood pressure Numerous mind-calming techniques can also reduce blood pressure. All are forms of meditation that employ various techniques to get the practitioner into a state that is frequently referred to as “thoughtful awareness” or “restful alertness.”

Overview

A blood pressure reading that is low for one individual may not be for another. Absence of symptoms or light-headedness and fainting may be the result of low blood pressure. There are situations where low blood pressure can be fatal.

Low blood pressure can have a variety of causes, from severe medical disorders to dehydration. In order to treat low blood pressure if needed, it’s critical to identify the cause.

Types of low blood pressure

Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension)

Blood pressure drops suddenly when one stands up from a seated or lying down position. Dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical disorders, and certain drugs are among the causes. In senior folks, this kind of low blood pressure is typical.

Postprandial hypotension

After eating, the blood pressure starts to decline one to two hours later. Older persons are most likely to be affected, particularly if they have high blood pressure or conditions affecting the autonomic nervous system, including Parkinson’s disease. Small, low-carb meals, increased water consumption, and abstaining from alcohol may all help lessen symptoms.

Neurally mediated hypotension

This is a dip in blood pressure that occurs after prolonged standing. Children and young adults are primarily affected by this kind of low blood pressure. It could be the outcome of a heart-brain communication breakdown.

Multiple system atrophy with orthostatic hypotension

This uncommon condition, also known as Shy-Drager syndrome, affects the neurological system, which regulates involuntary processes including breathing, heart rate, blood pressure, and digestion. It is linked to extremely elevated blood pressure when in a supine position.

How common is low blood pressure?

The number of people affected by low blood pressure cannot be determined because it is a prevalent condition without any symptoms. But as you age, orthostatic hypotension appears to become more prevalent. Around 5% of adults over 50 are thought to have it, and among those over 70, that number rises to nearly 30%.

Who does low blood pressure affect?

Depending on the cause, hypotension can impact individuals of any age and from any background. But those over 50 are more prone to experience symptoms (particularly orthostatic hypotension). Extreme physical activity is another factor that may cause it to occur (without symptoms), and this is more common in younger individuals.

What side effects might low blood pressure cause?

• Shock : Low blood pressure can have an impact on your organs by limiting the amount of blood flow to them. That may result in damage to your organs or even shock, which is a condition in which your body begins to shut down due to insufficient oxygen and blood flow.
• Falls and fall-related injuries: Because hypotension can result in dizziness and fainting, these are the major hazards associated with it. Broken bones, concussions, and other severe or perhaps fatal injuries can result from falls. One of your top concerns should be to avoid falls if you have hypotension.
• Heart problems or stroke: Your heart may attempt to compensate for low blood pressure by beating more quickly or forcefully. That may eventually result in irreversible cardiac damage or even heart failure. In addition, because blood isn’t flowing normally, clots can form and lead to issues including deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and stroke.

What medications and treatments are used?

When treating low blood pressure, the most crucial thing for a medical professional to do is identify and address the underlying reason. Simple IV fluids, antibiotics, surgery, or even a heart transplant are all possible forms of treatment. Certain individuals with low blood pressure require hospitalisation.

One of three approaches is typically used to treat hypotension directly:

• Changing how your body handles fluids: The fluid balance in your body is kept stable by your kidneys. Some drugs can cause your kidneys to retain salt and water in your body, which can lower blood pressure.
• Making blood vessels constrict: There are drugs that relax blood vessels in the body to lower blood pressure, and there are drugs that have the reverse effect.
• Increasing blood volume: This technique includes injecting fluids into your bloodstream and is often referred to as fluid resuscitation. Blood transfusions, plasma, and intravenous (IV) fluids are a few examples.

How to prevent low blood pressure

Usually, there is no way to stop hypotension from happening to you or lower your risk. The only exception is if you steer clear of situations or behaviours that put you at risk, such abusing recreational drugs or using herbal or supplement therapies that lower blood pressure.

You may be able to prevent low blood pressure after meals by eating smaller, lower-carb meals.

How do I take care of your self ?

The best course of action for controlling symptoms of hypotension is to do as directed by your healthcare physician. Any of the following could be included in their recommendations:

• Managing your diet: Observing dietary guidelines, particularly those regarding salt consumption, can aid in preventing hypotension symptoms.
• Taking your medication: These can assist you in avoiding low blood pressure’s disruptive symptoms and effects.
• Taking it slow: Refrain from getting up too soon, particularly if you have orthostatic hypotension. That can assist you in avoiding the effects of hypotension, such as dizziness and fainting.
• Dressing up: Your blood pressure may rise as a result of compression socks, which apply minimal pressure to your feet and legs.
• Having a seat: Take a seat if you start to feel lightheaded or dizzy. You run the chance of suffering serious or even fatal injuries by falling from a standing height, like a fractured hip, concussion, skull fracture, or broken ribs.

Blood pressure benefits of quieting the brain

Many people are unaware that they have hypotension, a disorder that can go undiagnosed. Others may experience uncomfortable symptoms that interfere with day-to-day activities and daily living. It’s critical to get your low blood pressure checked and treated if you think you may have it. Fall prevention and other consequences can be prevented with the right diagnosis and care. Thankfully, there are various treatments available for this disease, and your healthcare practitioner can educate you on how to take care of yourself.