Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when blood pressure is too low, leading to insufficient blood flow to vital organs. Symptoms include dizziness, lightheadedness, and potentially fainting; it can be caused by dehydration, medications, or underlying health conditions.

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, occurs when blood pressure falls too low. This can lead to inadequate blood flow to the brain and other vital organs, potentially causing dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting (syncope), blurred vision, fatigue, nausea, and in severe cases, shock. Several factors can contribute to low blood pressure, including dehydration, certain medications (such as diuretics, alpha blockers, beta blockers, and some antidepressants), heart problems (such as bradycardia, heart valve problems, heart failure), endocrine problems (such as hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency), severe infection (septicemia), severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), nutritional deficiencies (such as vitamin B12 and folate), and prolonged bed rest. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension), a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position, is a common type of low blood pressure. Postprandial hypotension, a drop in blood pressure after eating, is also possible. Chronic hypotension, while less common, can be a sign of an underlying health condition.