Low blood pressure is not always a sign of a problem. But if you have symptoms of low blood pressure, your doctor can diagnose the condition and uncover the cause. Symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness when you stand up from sitting or lying down -- with a decrease in your blood pressure -- may indicate a condition called postural hypotension. A wide range of underlying conditions may also cause your symptoms. It's important to identify the cause of low blood pressure so appropriate treatment can be given. Show The doctor will look at your medical history, age, specific symptoms, and the conditions under which the symptoms occurred. They will do a physical exam and may repeatedly check your blood pressure and pulse rate -- after you've been lying down for a few minutes, right after you stand up, and within a few minutes after you stand quietly. Other tests may be performed, such as an ECG (electrocardiogram) to measure heart rate and rhythm and an echocardiogram (an ultrasound test to visualize the heart). You may also have blood tests to look for anemia or problems with your blood sugar levels. More sophisticated home ECG monitoring (a Holter monitor or "event" monitor) may be necessary to check for heart problems that come and go or an irregular heart beat that can cause your blood pressure to drop suddenly. An exercise stress test or, less commonly, an electrophysiology test (EP test) may also be helpful. Some forms of postural hypotension may require a test called a "tilt table" test. This test evaluates the body's reaction to changes in position. The person lies on a table, is safely strapped in, and the table is raised to an upright position for up to an hour. Blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms are recorded. Often, medications are given to help guide treatment. What Are the Treatments for Low Blood Pressure?For many people, chronic low blood pressure can be effectively treated with diet and lifestyle changes. Depending on the cause of your symptoms, your doctor may tell you to increase your blood pressure by making these simple changes: Within certain limits, the lower your blood pressure reading is, the better. There is also no specific number at which day-to-day blood pressure is considered too low, as long as none of the symptoms of trouble are present. Symptoms of low blood pressureMost doctors will only consider chronically low blood pressure as dangerous if it causes noticeable signs and symptoms, such as:
Lowering the RiskYour donation helps empower people everywhere to learn the facts and take action to lower their risk of heart problems.Donate Now Underlying causes of low blood pressureLow blood pressure can occur with:
If you notice a sudden decline in blood pressureA single lower-than-normal reading is not cause for alarm, unless you are experiencing any other symptoms or problems. If you experience any dizziness, lightheadedness, nausea or other symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult with your health care professional. To help with your diagnosis, keep a record of your symptoms and activities at the time they occurred. Is low blood pressure related to low heart rate? Find out. Written by American Heart Association editorial staff and reviewed by science and medicine advisers. See our editorial policies and staff. How do you stop dizziness from low blood pressure?Lifestyle and home remedies. Drink more water, less alcohol. Alcohol is dehydrating and can lower blood pressure, even if drinking in moderation. ... . Pay attention to body positions. Gently move from lying flat or squatting to a standing position. ... . Eat small, low-carb meals. ... . Exercise regularly.. When is low blood pressure an emergency?If low blood pressure causes a person to pass out (become unconscious), seek treatment right away. Or call 911 or the local emergency number. If the person is not breathing or has no pulse, begin CPR.
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