Low Blood Pressure

In general, low blood pressure is a good thing. People with low blood pressure tend to live longer and have a decreased risk of stroke, heart disease and kidney disease. Low blood pressure is not a problem unless it causes symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting. It can be worsened by fatigue, exercise, dehydration, alcohol consumption or prolonged bed rest.

In healthy people, symptoms can be managed by avoiding standing up too quickly and keeping hydrated. If symptoms are persistent, see your doctor to ensure there is not an underlying heart or hormonal problem. Untreated diabetes, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson's disease, pregnancy and certain medications can cause low blood pressure too.

Acute, sudden-onset low blood pressure, such as might occur with massive haemorrhage, septic shock or anaphylactic shock, needs to be treated as a medical emergency. Intravenous fluids and, if necessary, blood transfusion may be required and the cause needs to be addressed urgently.

If there is an underlying cause, that condition needs to be treated. If there is no underlying problem, your doctor may advise you to increase your fluid and possibly salt intake and consider drinking a caffeinated beverage at times when you feel symptomatic, since caffeine causes blood vessel constriction. Occasionally, if the problem is persistent, your doctor may recommend medication. In general, however, if you have low blood pressure but no symptoms or very infrequent symptoms, you don't need any treatment whatsoever.