Physicians utilize blood pressure measurements to help assess how effectively the heart is pumping blood to the body. Blood pressure measures the force at which the heart pumps the blood and the pressure the blood exerts on the arteries as it delivers blood to the body.
Hypotension
The American Heart Association defines the optimal blood pressure as 120/80 mm Hg. Blood pressure results lower than this are indicative of hypotension, or low blood pressure.
Dangers of Low Blood Pressure
Low blood pressure readings are not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, lower readings may indicate the heart is pumping efficiently. Low readings are not considered too low until patients experience symptoms such as lightheadedness, fainting or dizziness.
Causes of Hypotension
Blood pressure readings below 120/80 result from medical conditions such as heart attack and heart failure, endocrine disorders and severe infections, like sepsis. Hypotension can also be caused by medications, dehydration and prolonged bed rest.
