9 Causes of Low Blood Pressure and Solutions

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can disrupt daily activities and even pose a health risk if not properly addressed. Gain a comprehensive understanding of this condition and ways to manage it.

What is Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when blood pressure drops below the normal range of 90/60 mmHg. This happens when blood does not apply enough pressure against the arterial walls while moving through the circulatory system.

Hypotension might not always have symptoms, but it can cause issues like dizziness, blurred vision, extreme fatigue, nausea, and fainting in severe cases.

Causes of Low Blood Pressure

Here are the nine main causes of low blood pressure that you need to be aware of:

1. Pregnancy

Physiological changes during pregnancy cause rapid dilation of blood vessels, especially within the first 24 weeks.

This condition results in a significant drop in blood pressure. After childbirth, blood pressure usually returns to normal pre-pregnancy levels.

2. Dehydration

A lack of body fluids can lead to a decrease in circulating blood volume. This condition can be triggered by factors like fever, severe diarrhea, excessive vomiting, intense exercise without enough fluids, or hot weather leading to excessive sweating.

3. Hormonal Disorders

Endocrine conditions like Addison’s disease and diabetes can affect the body’s hormonal balance.

Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can also reduce blood pressure. These hormonal disorders impact the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure.

4. Blood Loss

A reduction in blood volume due to bleeding, whether from injury or internal bleeding (hypovolemia), can cause a drastic drop in blood pressure. This condition requires immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

5. Severe Infection

An infection entering the bloodstream (sepsis) can cause life-threatening blood pressure drops known as septic shock. This occurs when pathogens enter the blood and spread throughout the body.

6. Heart Disorders

Various cardiovascular conditions can cause low blood pressure, including valve abnormalities, heart attacks, and heart failure.

These conditions impair the heart’s ability to pump blood efficiently throughout the body, resulting in lowered blood pressure.

7. Severe Allergy Reaction

Anaphylaxis, or a severe allergic reaction, can cause a significant and life-threatening drop in blood pressure.

This occurs when the immune system overreacts to an allergen, causing blood vessels to dilate drastically.

8. Nutrient Deficiencies

Vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron deficiencies can cause anemia, leading to low blood pressure. This occurs because the body lacks enough red blood cells to transport oxygen throughout the body.

9. Side Effects of Medication

Several types of medications can lower blood pressure as a side effect, including:

• Antihypertensives include beta-blockers and diuretics.
• Antidepressants
• Medications for Parkinson’s disease.
• Erectile dysfunction medications can be dangerous when used with nitrates.

How to Address Low Blood Pressure

Here are the steps you can take to address low blood pressure:

1. Fluid and Nutrient Management

Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day to prevent dehydration and increase blood volume. Adjust your eating pattern to small but frequent meals to maintain stable blood pressure.

2. Mind Your Body Position

Avoid sudden position changes when getting up from bed or standing. Make position changes gradually and slowly to prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.

3. Use of Compression Stockings

Compression stockings can help prevent blood from pooling in the legs and improve blood circulation to the heart. An alternative could be using an abdominal binder.

4. Salt Intake Modification

Eating salty foods in moderation can help raise blood pressure, but it should be done as per a doctor’s advice.

5. Regular Exercise

Engage in light physical activity regularly to facilitate blood circulation. Avoid strenuous exercise or environments that are too hot.

6. Temperature Management

Avoid hot showers or prolonged bathing as it can cause dilation of blood vessels which lowers blood pressure.

7. Consume Nutritious Foods

Ensure adequate intake of vitamin B12, folic acid, and iron to prevent anemia, which can worsen low blood pressure.

8. Medication Evaluation

Consult with your doctor if you are taking certain medications, as some types of drugs can affect blood pressure.

Blood Pressure Check Locations

Regular blood pressure checks are essential for monitoring cardiovascular health. Tirta Medical Centre (TMC) is an excellent choice for conducting blood pressure examinations.

TMC has a trusted and accredited laboratory, offering accurate and professional blood pressure testing services.

Advantages of undergoing examinations at TMC:

• Experienced medical team
• Quick and accurate test results
• Clinics available in 30 locations across Indonesia
• Professional and comfortable service

READ: Normal Blood Pressure

If you have symptoms of low blood pressure or want a routine check, visit the nearest TMC branch for excellent healthcare services.