Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure) : Hypotension, also referred to as Low Blood Pressure. Low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure is much lower than normal. This means the heart, brain, and other parts of the body do not get enough blood. Normal blood pressure is usually between 90/60 mmHg and 130/80 mmHg.
Certain medicines and substances can lead to low blood pressure, including:
• Alcohol
• Anti-anxiety medicines
• Certain antidepressants
• Diuretics
• Heart medicines, including those used to treat high blood pressure and coronary heart disease
• Medicines used for surgery
• Painkillers
Other causes of low blood pressure include:
• Nerve damage from diabetes
• Changes in heart rhythm (arrhythmias)
• Not drinking enough fluids (dehydration)
• Heart failure
Symptoms
Symptoms of low blood pressure may include:
• Blurry vision
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Fainting (syncope)
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleepiness
• Weakness
Treatment
• Use more salt.
• Drink more water. Fluids increase blood volume and help prevent dehydration, both of which are important in treating hypotension.
• Wear compression stockings. The same elastic stockings commonly used to relieve the pain and swelling of varicose veins may help reduce the pooling of blood in your legs.
• Medications. Several medications, either used alone or together, can be used to treat low blood pressure that occurs when you stand up (orthostatic hypotension). The drug fludrocortisone is often used to treat this form of low blood pressure.