What is hypotension?Hypotension is abnormally low blood pressure (lower than 90/60 mm Hg). If your blood pressure gets too low, it can cause dizziness, fainting or death. Show
Low blood pressure is not a condition that is usually treated except if it occurs in the elderly or occurs suddenly. In patients over 65, it could indicate the brain and limbs are not receiving adequate blood supply. If your blood pressure drops suddenly, it could deprive the brain of blood, which can lead to lightheadedness or dizziness. When blood pressure drops suddenly after moving from a lying down to a sitting position, it is called postural hypotension or orthostatic hypotension. When blood pressure drops from standing for a long period of time and leads to passing out, it is called vasovagal syncope. Common related conditions Causes of hypotensionThere are several causes of hypotension including:
Risk factors for hypotension
Symptoms of hypotensionMost doctors don’t consider hypotension serious unless it produces noticeable symptoms such as:
If you have cold, clammy or pale skin, rapid or shallow breathing, weak or rapid pulse or confusion, you could be suffering from extreme hypotension, which could lead to death. Call 911 immediately if you suspect you are suffering from extreme hypotension. Diagnosis of hypotensionOne abnormally low blood pressure reading without any other symptoms will usually not cause concern. In most cases, your doctor will monitor you over a series of visits to evaluate if the low blood pressure is a consistent pattern. The physician may also order other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause of the condition. Tests that your doctor may order include:
Treatments of hypotensionLow blood pressure that doesn’t show any symptoms does not typically require treatment. For those who do have symptoms, you will be treated based on what the underlying cause of the low blood pressure is. Home treatments include:
If conservative treatments are not successful in increasing your blood pressure, your doctor may need to prescribe medication. Drugs that treat hypotension include:
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What is a dangerously low blood pressure for an elderly person?Hypotension is abnormally low blood pressure (lower than 90/60 mm Hg). If your blood pressure gets too low, it can cause dizziness, fainting or death. Low blood pressure is not a condition that is usually treated except if it occurs in the elderly or occurs suddenly.
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