Low blood pressure, or hypotension, can be a serious condition if not treated. According to Medline Plus, hypotension is a blood pressure reading of less than 90/60. Hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, can cause hypotension. Bradycardia, which means the heart beats slower than 60 beats per minute, can also lower blood pressure. Some people suffer from orthostatic hypotension. Their blood pressure decreases when standing suddenly. The remedies for hypotension are simple, but before trying any remedies, consult your doctor.
Drink More Fluids
Drinking more fluids will increase blood volume. When blood volume is increased, blood pressure will also increase. Drinking water will effectively increase blood pressure, but some doctors will suggest caffeine when a patient has hypotension. According to the Mayo Clinic, some people who regularly drink caffeine have a higher average blood pressure than do those who drink none. Drinking beverages high in electrolytes such as sodium will also aid in increasing blood pressure.
Eat More Salt
Eating a diet higher in salt will help to retain water and increase blood volume, thus raising blood pressure. Before significantly changing your diet, discuss your plan with a doctor. A high-salt diet is linked to many complications such as heart disease and kidney failure. If a high-salt diet is the right choice, try adding sea salt to fresh, natural foods. Many processed foods are high in sodium, but are lacking nutrients needed on a daily basis.
Positioning
Positioning is important for people who have hypotension, especially orthostatic hypotension. Headaches, dizzy spells and even fainting can occur when blood pressure decreases. The Mayo Clinic suggests that people who suffer from hypotension should consider their position when dropping something on the floor. Instead of bending at the waist, a squat position should be used. Also, while sleeping, the head of the bed should be slightly elevated. When going from a sitting or laying position to standing up, the movement should be slow. This will help decrease the "head rush" dizzy spell and possible fainting.
