Hypotension, or dangerously low blood pressure, is a medical condition in which the patient’s blood pressure measurement is much lower than the normal range, which is normally about 120/80 mm Hg. However, what constitutes a potentially life-threatening low may vary from one individual to the next, depending on variables such as age, general health, and one’s own baseline blood pressure.
Is hypotension rare?
Although hypotension is not uncommon overall, its incidence varies widely across demographics. There are two fundamental forms of hypotension, the first being essential hypotension and the second being secondary hypotension.
- Primary Hypotension (Essential Hypotension): This is the most typical case of low blood pressure.People who seem to be in good health are particularly susceptible. Many individuals have transiently low blood pressure on occasion.
- Secondary Hypotension: Hypotension due to an underlying medical condition or a drug adverse effect
What are the numbers?
Blood pressure readings below 90/60 mm Hg on either the systolic (top number) or diastolic (bottom number) are considered unhealthy and may be dangerously low. It’s important to remember that low blood pressure may have a wide range of effects and manifestations in the human body.
What are the effects of hypotension?
Low blood pressure may not have any noticeable effects on some individuals, but in others it may cause dizziness, fainting, disorientation, weariness, or even organ malfunction.
Treatment for life-threateningly low blood pressure must take into account both the severity of the problem and its cause.
What can my cardiologist do?
A cardiologist or other medical professional may take the following measures to treat low blood pressure:
- Find out what’s causing the low blood pressure. Dehydration, blood loss, heart disease, drugs, neurological illnesses, and endocrine abnormalities can contribute to low blood pressure. A correct diagnosis requires a comprehensive medical examination and patient history.
- Intravenous fluids may be given to restore blood volume and increase blood pressure if the low blood pressure is the result of dehydration or blood loss.
- A cardiologist may prescribe blood pressure-raising drugs, depending on the reason. Patients may take vasopressors like norepinephrine to constrict blood vessels or inotropes to enhance heart function.
- To maintain stable blood pressure, patients with persistently low blood pressure may need regular monitoring. Patient reactions and health status may require medication adjustments.
Dangerously low blood pressure can result in shock or organ failure, making it a medical emergency. Get medical help if you or someone you know has severe symptoms, including disorientation, quick or shallow breathing, chest discomfort, or loss of consciousness.
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