Low blood pressure(hypotension) is the opposite ofhigh blood pressure(hypertension).
Normal blood pressure readings are typically between 90/60 and 120/80 mmHg (millimeters of mercury).
The top and bottom numbers of a blood pressure reading representsystolic and diastolic pressure.
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Having a top numberbelow 90 or a bottom number under 60 is considered low blood pressure.
Dangerous Low Blood Pressure: Whats Considered Serious?
People respond differently to low blood pressure.
Low blood pressure should be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
What Causes Blood Pressure to Drop?
Changes in body position, such as standing up quickly, commonly cause blood pressure to drop.
This jot down of low blood pressure is calledpostural (orthostatic) hypotension.
If someone experiences a dangerous drop in blood pressure and goes into shock, call 911right away.
Blood tests, urine samples, and imaging are also used to diagnose low blood pressure.
If someone with low blood pressure faints often, atilt table testmay be used during diagnosis.
In cases of severe low blood pressure, pharmaceuticals or other medical treatments may be prescribed.
There are lots of easy-to-use HBPM products available for home use.
Sudden blood pressure drops can lead to fainting and falls; sitting helps avoid this.
Outlook
In general, the outlook for low blood pressure is good.
Many people go about their day-to-day lives with chronically low blood pressure without experiencing any symptoms.
Summary
Low blood pressure is considered a reading below 90/60 mm Hg.
If low blood pressure doesn’t cause symptoms, it usually doesn’t require treatment.
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