Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, means a person’s blood pressure is lower than normal. Most healthy adults may not have any signs or symptoms of low blood pressure unless it falls too low. Symptoms may show if a person’s blood pressure falls below 90/60 or if the drop in blood pressure is sudden and unexpected. Most often, low blood pressure is caused by:
- Nutritional deficiency – lack of certain vitamins like B-12 and folate can cause anemia (not enough red blood cells)
- Severe infection – when an infection enters the blood stream and can cause a severe drop of blood pressure called septic shock
- Certain medications. Heart medications or high blood pressure medications like diuretics and beta blockers or certain types of antidepressants may cause blood pressure to lower
- Pregnancy causes a woman’s circulatory system to change rapidly. This is normal, and blood pressure usually returns after the woman has given birth.
- Other causes such as dehydration, trauma like major bleeding or severe burns, or allergic reactions
Low blood pressure may be normal for most people, particularly athletes or those with a strong heart and well-developed circulatory system. If no symptoms are present, low blood pressure is not normally a problem. However, if certain symptoms persist, your blood pressure may be too low. These symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness/loss of consciousness
- Loss of concentration
- Nausea
If you experience any dizziness or lightheartedness and loss of concentration that don’t go away, consult your healthcare professional. Interested in learning more about the health care industry? Register for Carrington’s medical assisting program today!