Do not ignore this risky issue with blood pressure.

Key Takeaways
Low blood pressure can be risky
High blood pressure meds may cause low pressure
Orthostatic hypotension is common
Consider natural ways to manage low blood pressure
Consult doctor if experiencing significant problems
Stay hydrated and increase salt intake
Take precautions to prevent falls
Avoid triggers like hot baths and alcohol
Frequently Asked Questions
References

Overview

Nowadays, discussions about blood pressure tend to focus on high blood pressure, which poses significant risks to the heart, arteries, and overall health when left uncontrolled. However, it's important to recognize that low blood pressure can also have adverse effects. Low blood pressure can increase the likelihood of dizziness and falls, and it may be linked to heart complications, particularly as individuals age. Being aware of the risks associated with low blood pressure is crucial. Fortunately, there are numerous natural approaches to mitigate its impact on daily life.

Going Too Far Down

Interestingly, individuals with high blood pressure are at a heightened risk of experiencing low blood pressure, often due to the potent pharmaceuticals prescribed by doctors to lower blood pressure levels. A study conducted by Kaiser Permanente in California revealed that individuals whose systolic blood pressure is pushed below 110mmHg by medications face a doubled risk of falling and fainting.¹ It is well-known that a broken hip can have severe consequences, especially for the elderly. In this scenario, medication intended to lower blood pressure can exacerbate issues rather than resolve them. Researchers caution that the risk of falls due to these medications significantly rises in individuals with "orthostatic hypotension," a condition that leads to a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing up. Orthostatic hypotension is more prevalent than commonly believed. Studies indicate that one in twenty middle-aged individuals experiences this condition.² By the age of sixty, the prevalence increases to one in five individuals, and by the late seventies, it may affect up to 50 percent of the population.³ Understanding the physiological responses and muscle actions that occur when transitioning to a standing position sheds light on the widespread occurrence of orthostatic hypotension. The muscle contractions involved in standing increase blood flow back to the heart, prompting a reduction in blood pressure and blood flow, which can lead to feelings of dizziness or vertigo and increase the risk of falls.

Dealing With Orthostatic Hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension can also be a common side effect of certain medications, including:

Diuretics like thiazides and furosemide used for treating high blood pressure and edema.
Venodilators such as nitrates prescribed for heart failure.
Anti-depressants like amitriptyline and nortriptyline.
Direct vasodilators such as amlodipine, hydralazine, nifedipine, and alpha antagonists commonly used for high blood pressure and heart failure.

If you experience dizziness and low blood pressure upon standing while taking any of these medications, consult your healthcare provider to explore alternative prescriptions or adjustments. Additionally, individuals on high blood pressure medication should consider the possibility of misdiagnosis, as stress during medical visits can artificially elevate blood pressure readings. Repeated assessments may be necessary to determine the true baseline blood pressure. Moreover, the evolving definition of "high blood pressure" within the medical field has led to more individuals being prescribed medication unnecessarily, despite the potential risks of falls and fractures associated with these drugs.

Other Tips to Ward off Plunges in Blood Pressure

In addition to medical interventions, there are numerous natural strategies to manage orthostatic hypotension effectively. For example, health experts recommend consuming two to three liters of water daily to maintain blood volume.⁵ Increasing salt intake to 6 to 9 grams per day can also be beneficial.⁶ Including salty soups and broths in your diet is a good way to achieve this. Researchers have found that rapidly drinking around half a quart of water when feeling lightheaded can elevate blood pressure within minutes, acting similarly to a short-acting medication.⁷ Other helpful measures include:⁸

Utilizing abdominal binders and compression stockings to help stabilize blood pressure.
Sleeping with the head of the bed elevated.
Opting for smaller, low-sugar meals to reduce the risk of orthostatic hypotension, and avoiding alcohol consumption.
Incorporating gentle daily exercises like swimming and recumbent biking, which are low-impact activities.
Maintaining a cool environment, avoiding prolonged exposure to hot baths or weather, which can trigger dizziness.
Adopting a gradual approach when standing up to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.
Avoiding prolonged standing to minimize the risk of orthostatic hypotension.

If you are experiencing significant challenges with orthostatic hypotension, consult your healthcare provider to identify potential causes, such as medication side effects. Often, managing this condition involves implementing lifestyle modifications rather than seeking a definitive cure.

References

Susan Parker

Susan Parker is a 49-year-old Senior Manager at a marketing firm. With two older children becoming more independent, she is now focusing on her own health and wellbeing. She’s passionate about natural and holistic health approaches, and values high-quality, trustworthy products. Susan enjoys yoga, gardening, reading, and cooking, and seeks to stay energetic and sharp while balancing a busy career and personal life.