Low blood Pressure

Low blood pressure, also known as Hypo tension denotes a condition wherein there occurs a significant drop in the blood pressure below the normal range. It is caused when the heart is unable to pump adequate volumes of blood into the arteries due to weakened and devitalized state of the body system.The most common reason behind developing a low blood pressure is inadequate nutrition. Malnutrition can result from an unbalanced diet deficient in vital vitamins, minerals, proteins and calories.

Dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea causes substantial loss of water from the body and when the same is not replenished it may cause orthostatic hypo tension.

Moderate or severe blood loss resulting from trauma, surgical operations or other causes may lead to rapid depletion of blood resulting in a fall in the blood pressure.

It may also result from emotional upheavals triggered by prolonged frustration and disappointment.

Blood pressure may also be lowered due to many heart conditions such as pericarditis and pulmonary embolism . Certain medications are also responsible for lowering blood pressure inside the body. This includes medications used in treating depression, Parkinson’s disease and high blood pressure. Alcohol and narcotics can also cause low blood pressure.

Common symptoms of hypertension are lethargy, weakness, fatigue, dizziness, black outs and cold sweat.

Low blood pressure is treated on the basis of the factors causing the same. However there are certain preventive measures that can keep away low blood pressure. These include the following measures-

- Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration, especially during heat exposure and physical exertion;

- Avoid taking very hot bath or shower as it tends to cause the general body temperature to escalate;

- Those suffering from diarrhea or vomiting should consume plenty of water and fluids to replenish the fluid loss from the body;

- Avoid alcohol;

- After sitting or resting for a long period, take time to rise by standing up slowly;

- Those who have started a new medication and suffer nausea or dizziness, should immediately consult a physician as certain medications tend to cause low blood pressure;

Finally, take care to eat properly and maintain a balanced healthy diet that prevents malnutrition and ultimately low blood pressure.