Keeping blood pressure levels under control is an essential step in lowering the risk of a heart attack or stroke. For some patients, however, blood pressure that drops too low may be unhealthy and can be a warning sign of an underlying disease. If you have concerns about your blood pressure, have it checked regularly by a health care provider.
Identification
Blood pressure measures the force that blood places against the blood vessel walls as it is pumped through the body. It is recorded as a fraction, with the top, or systolic, number representing the heart contracting and the bottom, or diastolic, number representing the heart at rest. Healthy blood pressure is 120/80 or less. Low pressure may be diagnosed when the top number drops below 90 or the bottom drops below 60, says MedlinePlus.
Considerations
Low blood pressure is considered unhealthy if it coexists with symptoms or a known underlying medical condition, reports the American Heart Association. If no symptoms or diseases are present, there is no set number that indicates dangerously low blood pressure. In some cases, low blood pressure can cause dizziness, fainting, vision problems, upset stomach, abnormal breathing or heart rate and fatigue. There are many causes of low blood pressure, and if symptoms occur, it is important to obtain a proper diagnosis.
Warnings
Low blood pressure that occurs with or without symptoms can sometimes be a warning sign of a serious underlying medical condition. According to MayoClinic.com, heart conditions such as heart failure, heart attack or problems with the heart valves can all inhibit the heart from pumping normally, which will make blood pressure drop. Thyroid conditions, Addison's disease and diabetes can also contribute to lower then normal blood pressure. Allergic reactions, severe infections and a B-12 deficiency are other common causes. A physician should monitor low blood pressure just in case it is an early warning sign. It is critical to seek medical attention if there is a sudden drop in pressure, as this may be a warning sign of excessive bleeding or shock.
Solution
Blood pressure that drops occasionally, such as when transitioning from a standing to seated position, does not usually require treatment. If symptoms occur, however, it may be necessary to add more salt and water into the diet to increase pressure. Wearing compression stockings to help the blood get pumped out of the legs may help, and if symptoms are severe, there are medications that can be taken.
