Low blood pressure?
- Dave
- Jan 20, 2016
- 2 min read
We all know having high blood pressure puts you at risk of a heart attack and stroke, but what if your blood pressure is too low? A growing number of people are seeking treatment for hypotension (low blood pressure).
"People assume low blood pressure is good because they won't have a heart attack," he says. "But if your blood pressure is too low you can be prone to recurrent fainting, which is disabling." Low blood pressure doesn't always cause problems, but symptoms can include:
Dizziness
Blurred vision
Feeling shaky
Nausea
Fatigue
Fainting
Why it happens
Some people have a natural tendency to low blood pressure, but even if you know you have it, symptoms such as dizziness or fainting should be investigated. It can also be a sign of something more serious. "Call an ambulance if someone passes out and it's the first time it's happened," Dr Vaddadi says. Some people look as though they are having a seizure and can lose control of their bladder or bowels when they faint. There could be underlying factors including heart disease, brain disease (stroke, epilepsy) or other metabolic or blood disorders. Some drugs, particularly those for high blood pressure, can cause blood pressure to become too low. Diuretics, which increase the amount of urine your kidneys excrete, can cause blood pressure to drop, as can some antibiotics. A Canadian study found people on blood-pressure medication and certain antibiotics were up to six times more likely to be hospitalised for low blood pressure.
Diet's role
If you drink a lot of caffeine and not enough water, you risk dehydration, which can cause your blood pressure to drop. And if you drink a lot of alcohol and don't eat enough, your blood pressure can drop so low you pass out, Dr Vaddadi says. "It's not what you expect to hear from a cardiologist, but sometimes a bit of salt can make dizzy spells go away," he says. Smaller meals can also help. "When you eat a big meal, blood is diverted to the gut to help digestion, so some people with low blood pressure can pass out."
How to avoid fainting
"When someone faints, people often feel they should prop them up or support them," Dr Vaddadi says. "However, lying down gets blood to the brain more quickly. Sometimes you can prevent a fainting spell by crossing your legs in a standing position and clenching your buttocks and thighs for 10 to 15 seconds." This squeezes the blood vessels in the legs and allows more blood to reach the brain.
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