Low blood pressure is medically referred to as hypotension, and it is a condition in which there is not enough pressure to effectively pump the blood throughout the circulatory system. Low blood pressure is usually a temporary condition, and depending upon what caused it, it can be ameliorated easily once the cause of the hypotension is identified, according to a report from the New York Times Health Guide. In some cases, low blood pressure can be potentially fatal so it is important to know the signs.
Dizziness
Dizziness is a common sign of low blood pressure. If dizziness from low blood pressure occurs upon standing it is said to be a result of orthostatic hypotension, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have low blood pressure, when you stand up quickly the blood is not efficiently pumped from the heart, throughout the system and to the brain as it should be. This results in a lightheaded and dizzy feeling. Dizziness that occurs if you have been standing up too long is referred to as neurally mediated hypotension. This type of low blood pressure can often occur after a scare or an upsetting experience. Dizziness from low blood pressure can be treated by simply sitting down.
Extreme Thirst
Extreme thirst is also referred to as dehydration, and it can be both a cause and a symptom of low blood pressure, according to the American Heart Association. Dehydration occurs when your body does not take in as much water as it uses for bodily functions. While excessive thirst can be related to other conditions such as diabetes, fever and diarrhea, if it is experienced in conjunction with other physical symptoms of low blood pressure such as cold and clammy hands, blurry vision and nausea you should have your blood pressure checked as soon as possible. In the meantime, sit down and drink a few glasses of water. If you are feeling especially nauseous, suck on some ice chips.
Shock
Shock is the most serious sign of low blood pressure. Shock occurs when the blood pressure is so low that blood is not getting to the body's major organs, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Shock is often preceded by the other symptoms of low blood pressure such as dizziness and sleepiness. The NHLBI states that there are times when there may be no early symptoms other than confusion. When shock begins the skin may become cold and clammy, the pulse fast and weak and breaths become rapid and shallow. Shock is an emergency situation and immediate medical attention is required for treatment.
