Low blood pressure can be risky for the heart

Everyone knows that high blood pressure is dangerous for the heart, but so is low pressure.

A recent study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology focused on what happens as the systolic blood pressure (SBP), and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) change.
For instance, most experts agree that if these numbers should go above 140 mmHg or 90 mmHg (hypertension), respectively, then they should be treated with medication. On the other end of the spectrum, levels that are too low, less than 60 mmHg (hypotension), could result in the heart muscles not receiving enough oxygen and eventually becoming damaged. These levels indicate an increased risk for heart disease and even death. Taking medication for high blood pressure could lead to a situation in which pressure becomes too low as well as highlighting the fact that doctors must monitor these cases closely.

Symptoms of low blood pressure can come in many forms, and The American Heart Association highlights dizziness, nausea, fainting, dehydration, blurred vision, clammy skin, and fatigue as possibilities. There isn’t a specific level of blood pressure that causes these symptoms and each person will measure slightly differently. Noticing any of these symptoms, regardless of whether or not they are related to blood pressure, is an excellent time to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Pregnancy is one of the most common causes of low blood pressure as a woman’s circulatory system expands for the growing child.

Underlying heart problems, endocrine issues, diabetes, blood loss, anemia, and certain types of infections and allergies can also be the culprit.

Age, as well, can lead to one form of low blood pressure called orthostatic hypotension that causes big drops after standing or eating.