Low blood pressurealso known as hypotension, is a condition that, although less known than hypertensionit can cause discomfort and even complications if it is not handled properly.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), hypotension is considered when blood pressure drops below 90/60 mmHg.
Although in some people a low pressure may not cause symptoms, in others it can generate dizziness, weakness or even fainting, explains Mario Fernández, general practitioner.
Therefore, it is essential to know the alert signals and know what to do if the pressure is lowered, especially in everyday situations.
Symptoms of low arterial pressure
Symptoms may vary in intensity according to the level of pressure descent and the organism’s response. The most common include:
- Dizziness or feeling of vertigo
- Blurred vision
- Extreme fatigue
- Nausea
- Fainting or momentary loss of knowledge
- Palpitations or weak and accelerated pulse
- Coldness in the extremities
These signs usually appear when the brain and other organs do not receive enough blood and oxygen, which can occur after rising sharply, after a copious meal or in very hot environments.
Common causes of low pressure
Hypotension may be due to various causes, including: dehydration, prolonged fasting or malnutrition, medication reactions, hormonal changes, in cases such as pregnancy or thyroid alterations; heart or neurological problems and emotional stress or intense anxiety, says Andrea Méndez, general practitioner.
Identifying the cause is key to establishing proper treatment and avoiding complications.
What to do if the pressure is lowered
Given the low pressure symptoms, the first thing is to keep calm and adopt a safe position. It is recommended:
- Sit or lie down immediatelypreferably with high legs to facilitate blood return to the heart and brain.
- Breathe deeply and avoid sudden movements until the feeling of weakness passes.
- Drink waterespecially if it is suspected that there is dehydration, a common cause of hypotension.
- Eat something salty or sugarylike a salt cookie or a natural juice, if many hours have passed without eating food.
If the symptoms persist, they are repeated frequently or accompanied by loss of knowledge, it is essential to go to the doctor to rule out underlying conditions.
Natural remedies to stabilize pressure
In addition to immediate measures, there are home remedies that can help prevent or control hypotension episodes, provided they do not replace medical consultation:
- Salt water: A small amount of salt dissolved in water can help up the pressure temporarily. It is not recommended in people with kidney problems or high pressure.
- Beet juice: rich in iron and potassium, can improve circulation and oxygenation.
- Romero infusion: traditionally used to improve blood circulation.
- Foods rich in vitamin B12 and folate: such as eggs, liver, legumes and green leafy vegetables, which contribute to the production of red blood cells and improve oxygenation.
It is also advisable to adopt certain healthy habits:
- Maintain one constant hydrationespecially in hot climates.
- Avoid excess alcohol, as it can delay blood vessels and reduce pressure.
- Fractional feeding in several small meals a day.
- Liftly get out of bed or a sitting position to avoid sudden whim.
Although many times low pressure episodes are transient, it is important to perform a medical evaluation if they occur frequently or are accompanied by other worrying symptoms. Hypotension can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as heart failure, hormonal problems or neurological disorders.
An early diagnosis and comprehensive approach are fundamental to avoid risks and guarantee a good quality of life.