Low blood pressure: symptoms, causes and what to do

Low blood pressure is when the blood pressure value is equal to or less than 9 by 6, that is 90×60 mmHg. Symptoms such as dizziness, a feeling of heavy head and, when more severe, drowsiness and mental confusion may appear.

Normally, low blood pressure (hypotension) appears when it is very hot or when you get up too quickly after lying down. However, it can also happen in the case of infections, dehydration or the need to adjust medications, for example.

When low blood pressure does not cause symptoms, it is not considered a problem, however, if there are associated symptoms, it is important to consult a cardiologist or general practitioner, so that the cause can be identified and the most appropriate treatment can be initiated.

Low blood pressure symptoms

The main symptoms of low blood pressure are:

1. Dizziness;
2. Nausea or vomiting;
3. Loss of balance;
4. Lack of energy and tiredness;
5. Weakness;
6. Feeling of fainting;
7. Mental confusion;
8. Difficulty concentrating;
9. Pallor;
10. Somnolence;
11. Heavy head feeling;
12. Blurred or blurred vision.

It is common for several symptoms to be noticed at the same time and, if they are frequent or do not improve, it is important to consult a general practitioner or cardiologist for an evaluation. See more about low blood pressure symptoms.

Make an appointment with your nearest cardiologist to assess whether the symptoms you experience are indicative of low blood pressure:

Online blood pressure calculator

To find out if your blood pressure is low, please enter the data into our calculator:

Possible causes

Generally, blood pressure drops due to changes in blood circulation and/or a decrease in heart rate, which can occur in the case of infections, dehydration or even when it is very hot.

Low blood pressure can also be a side effect of some medications, such as diuretics, antidepressants or antihypertensives, especially when they are used in high doses.

In addition, rapid changes in body position, such as standing up after lying down for a long time, can also lower blood pressure, which is called postural hypotension or orthostatic hypotension. Discover the main causes of low blood pressure.

How to know if it’s low blood pressure

The diagnosis of low blood pressure is made by measuring blood pressure, which can be carried out using a digital pressure measuring device or with the help of a sphygmomanometer.

It is recommended that blood pressure be measured immediately after waking up, sitting with the arm relaxed. In general, low pressure is considered when the device indicates that the pressure is equal to or less than 90×60 mmHg. Learn how to measure blood pressure correctly.

What to do when the pressure is low

Some measures that can help when pressure is low are:

1. Sit with your head between your legsto avoid fainting;
2. Lie down with your legs elevatedkeeping the feet above heart level, to facilitate blood circulation to the brain;
3. Loosen your clothes to breathe better;
4. Drink fluidssuch as water, coffee or fruit juice to help stabilize blood pressure.

It is also recommended to avoid exposure to the sun or exposure to very hot and humid environments.

Furthermore, when the pressure drop occurs when getting up from bed, for example, it is recommended to sit for about 2 minutes before getting up again. See more about what to do in case of low blood pressure.