Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension): Causes, Symptoms, and Management

What is low blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing on your heart artery walls. A normal blood pressure reading for the average adult is below 120/80 mm Hg. A low blood pressure reading is below 90/60 mm Hg.¹

The top number (systolic) is when your heart beats. The bottom number (diastolic) is when your heart rests.¹

What are symptoms of low blood pressure?

Common low blood pressure symptoms include:¹

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting (also called syncope)
• Blurred or distorted vision
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea
• Occasional rapid, shallow breathing
• Headache
• Confusion
• Feeling like your heart is fluttering or skipping a beat

These happen when your organs don’t get enough blood and oxygen.

When should you see a doctor for low blood pressure?

If symptoms impact your daily life, repeatedly happen, or cause a fall, make sure to reach out to your health care provider.²

What causes low blood pressure?

There are many causes of low blood pressure. They can be caused by your diet, underlying health conditions, or even medications. Here are some common causes of hypotension:¹

• Being on bed rest for too long
• Standing up for too long
• Parkinson's disease
• Depression
• Dehydration
• Some medications, like diuretics, beta blockers, or narcotics
• Other heart problems, such as a very low chronic heart rate or heart attack
• Endocrine problems, like low blood sugar or diabetes
• Lacking essential vitamins, like B-12 or folic acid
• Pregnancy

In rare cases, there may be life-threatening conditions that can lead to low blood pressure. This can include septic shock, a severe allergic reaction, or blood loss from major trauma.¹

Risk Factors for Hypotension

You're more at risk of having low blood pressure if you:²

• Are older in age
• Take certain medications that lower blood pressure
• Have certain health conditions, like Parkinson's disease or diabetes
• Take alcohol or illegal drugs

Types of Hypotension

There are also three main types of low blood pressure:²

1. Orthostatic (Postural) Hypotension

This is where you stand up and feel dizzy because your blood pressure drops. It can be related to dehydration, certain medications, or nerve problems. Orthostatic hypotension is more common in older people.

2. Postprandial Hypotension

This happens when your blood pressure falls 1 to 2 hours after eating, especially after large meals that contain a lot of carbohydrates.

3. Chronic/Asymptomatic Hypotension

This type of low blood pressure means you always have low numbers but no symptoms. This can be considered normal for some people.

What are the risks of having low blood pressure?

Low blood pressure isn’t always dangerous. But sudden drops or symptoms can lead to falls, injuries, or not being able to drive safely. In severe cases, you may go into shock when your organs don’t get enough blood.²

How is low blood pressure diagnosed and monitored?

Your health care provider may check your blood pressure readings at your medical appointments. They will also have you check your blood pressure at home. Make sure to let them know about any symptoms you have.³

Your provider may order tests such as:

• Blood work
• ECG or EKG (electrocardiogram)
• Tilt table test, which looks for pressure changes when you change position

At home, use a trusted blood pressure monitor for accurate readings, and write down your numbers and symptoms. A reading at or just below 90/60 mm Hg may not always be an issue. Your provider will help you determine what a low blood pressure reading is for you.³

How is low blood pressure treated?

Your treatment plan will depend on the cause of your low blood pressure and your symptoms. Your provider may have you try one or more of the following steps at home:³

• Stand up slowly
• Sit or lie down if you feel dizzy
• Drink more water
• Eat more salt (only if your doctor says it’s safe)
• Wear compression stockings to help blood flow in your legs
• Eat small, low-carb meals
• Exercise regularly
• Ask your doctor to review your medication and suggest an appropriate blood pressure monitor for you to have at home

Living Well with Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can be normal for some people. But if you get dizzy, start fainting, or experience other symptoms, talk with a health care provider. Knowing the signs, causes, and safe ways to manage and monitor hypotension can help you stay healthy feeling well.