How to treat low blood pressure


Like the high blood pressure or hypertension, low blood pressure or hypotension is also a matter of concern. The optimal level of blood pressure of the human body should be 120/80 mmHg. As per the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, hypotension is the condition in which the blood pressure falls below 90/60 mmHg. There may be different underlying causes for low blood pressure, and the treatment procedures also vary depending upon the cause.

Hypotension may develop due to abnormal heart rate and heart strokes. It may also be associated with diabetes and thyroid problems. Low blood pressure may also be the result of the drugs used for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease. It may also be caused as an after effect of eating, which is known as postprandial hypotension. In the process of digestion, there is an increased blood flow to the stomach and small intestine and a decrease everywhere else. This results in postprandial hypotension. Another form is the postural hypotension, in which the blood pressure decreases while changing postures such as while lying down, while getting up, etc.

The symptoms that a person with low blood pressure may develop are as follows:

  • Fainting
  • Lightheadedness
  • Blurred vision
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Lack of concentration
  • Depression
  • Abnormal thirst
  • Irregular heartbeat
The treatment procedures and cures for low blood pressure depend on specific cause. It is always advisable to immediately consult a specialist in case you experience any of the above symptoms. There are a number of natural remedies for low blood pressure, which you can try out after consulting with your health care provider. Some of them are as follows:

  • Drink an adequate amount of water to keep yourself hydrated. Avoid alcohol, as it may result in dehydration.
  • Eat small meals at regular intervals. Avoid large meals.
  • Consume ginger, turmeric, pepper, and cinnamon. These are known to elevate blood pressure.
  • Salt is known to raise the blood pressure due to presence of sodium. So, you can use salt to manage your low levels.
  • Perform exercise on a regular basis.
You should also cut down on white breads, white rice, sugary beverages, potatoes, and foods made up of refined flours. These pass quickly to the small intestine and require more blood flow. Thus, the pressure may become low. Also, don’t get out of your bed suddenly. This may result in postural hypotension and dizziness. Instead, get up slowly. You can stretch your knees and toes after waking up and then, slowly get down of your bed. Also, don’t stand for prolonged periods.

References

  1. http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=1&ContentID=2949
  2. http://www.ohsu.edu/xd/research/centers-institutes/neurology/parkinson-center/about/parkinsons/upload/low-blood-pressure.pdf
  3. http://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletters/Harvard_Heart_Letter/2010/July/eating-can-cause-low-blood-pressure

answered by A S

Low blood pressure is a serious condition that necessitates a visit to your primary health care provider. A skilled doctor will montior adrenal glands, check for anemia and do a comprehensive diet analysis. This information is needed to reccomend a treatment program.

answered by Dr C M N

What is it that you want to change, and why? The "normal" ranges of bloodpressure are simply averages for the entire population. This means there are a significant number of people whose blood pressure falls below the average. This is not necessarily an "unhealthy" condition. If you exercise regularly with a good combination of aerobic and strength trainingyou may be fortunate in having a very healthy cardiovascular system. Without knowing your history, and other health conditions, it is not possible to assess your current health. Typically, low bloodpressure does not carry thesame health risks as high bloodpressure.

answered by Dr K B N


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