The Often Overlooked Danger of Blood Pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension is often associated with an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other health issues. However, low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a lesser-known concern.
Read on for important insights into this often-overlooked condition…
Before discussing low blood pressure or high blood pressure, it is essential to understand optimal blood pressure levels.
Blood pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls as the heart pumps blood. It is measured using two numbers: systolic and diastolic, with systolic appearing above diastolic in millimeters of mercury (mm Hg).
Healthy Blood Pressure
According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute,1 a healthy blood pressure for most adults is below 120/80 mm Hg. Low blood pressure is defined as below 90/60 mm Hg.
Blood pressure numbers can vary throughout the day. Similar to a thermostat regulating home temperature, the body has mechanisms to maintain stable blood pressure.
While some individuals have consistently low blood pressure without issues, others may experience dizziness and other symptoms due to abnormally low blood pressure.
Have you ever felt lightheaded when standing up quickly? This sensation is known as orthostatic hypotension, caused by inadequate blood flow to the brain, leading to dizziness, blurred vision, and difficulty concentrating.
Causes of Orthostatic Hypotension
Various factors, including aging and certain medications, can disrupt the body's blood pressure regulation system.
Harvard Medical School reports that orthostatic hypotension affects around five percent of individuals under 50, with the prevalence increasing to 30 percent in those over 70.
As arteries stiffen with age, and blood pressure sensors become less sensitive, some people may struggle to respond effectively to drops in blood pressure, especially if they have high blood pressure.
Additionally, several medications, including beta blockers, alpha blockers, cold and allergy drugs, and some antidepressants, can exacerbate orthostatic hypotension.
Dehydration, diminished thirst sensation with age, and conditions like diabetes and Parkinson's disease can also contribute to orthostatic hypotension.
Other forms of low blood pressure include postprandial hypotension, which occurs after eating.
Managing Low Blood Pressure
If you suspect low blood pressure, consult a healthcare professional for assessment.
While low blood pressure may not always be concerning, if it causes bothersome or dangerous symptoms, consider these strategies to prevent future episodes:
- Consume salt: Adding salt to your diet can raise blood pressure. Opt for naturally salty foods like smoked fish, olives, broth, or salted nuts.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking more water can increase blood volume, supporting optimal blood supply and organ function.3
- Be cautious with body positions: Avoid sudden changes in posture or prolonged standing to prevent low blood pressure symptoms.4
- Incorporate blood pressure-friendly foods: Foods rich in vitamin B-12 and folate, like eggs, fortified cereals, beef, asparagus, and garbanzo beans, can help raise blood pressure. Licorice tea may also be beneficial.6
Regardless of blood pressure concerns, regular monitoring is beneficial for everyone. Address any fluctuations in blood pressure with a balanced diet and exercise routine.