Decreased Blood Pressure

Overview

Decreased Blood Pressure may not cause any problems for some people but for many, it can cause dizziness and fainting. In more severe cases, low blood pressure can be life-threatening.

Signs and Symptoms

Dizziness, Light-headedness, Blurred vision, Nausea, Fatigue, Lack of concentration, Confusion, especially in older people, Cold, clammy, pale skin, Rapid, shallow breathing, Weak and rapid pulse, Loss of consciousness, Generalised weakness, Headache

Common Causes

Pregnancy, Bradycardia, Heart valve problems, Heart attack, Heart failure, Parathyroid disease, Adrenal insufficiency, Low blood sugar, Diabetes, Dehydration, Severe infection, Severe allergic reaction, Lack of vitamin B12 and folate, Certain medications such as diuretics, beta-blockers, drugs for Parkinson's disease, antidepressants, and drugs for erectile dysfunction

Risk Factors

Age particularly adults greater than 65 years old, Certain medications, Parkinson's disease

Investigation Techniques

Medical history, Physical examination, Blood pressure reading when lying down and when standing, Full blood count, Serum creatinine, Serum urea, Erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein level, Blood culture, Urinalysis, Urine culture, Cortisol level, Serum electrolytes level, Urine pregnancy test, Blood glucose level, Skin prick test, IgE level, Serum tryptase, Chest X-ray, Echocardiogram

Treatment and Prevention

Ensure that you are well hydrated, Removal of drugs that can cause low blood pressure, Increase salt and water intake, Avoid large meals, Ingest meals with low carbohydrate, Minimise alcohol intake, Avoid activities of sudden standing immediately after eating, Specific medication provided by the doctors depending on the causative factors