It can be very difficult to determine common low blood pressure numbers. That said, the guidelines indicate them to be 120/80 and below. Yet, some healthcare experts feel that 120/90 is classed as low blood pressure and that the diastolic (the lower value of the two numbers) is more important. In other words, someone with blood pressure of 130/80 could be classed as having low blood pressure.
Why Knowing Common Low Blood Pressure Numbers Matters:
Many physicians will state that low blood pressure in itself is not dangerous. However, it is still important to know the common low blood pressure numbers and check yourself, because there is a chance of you fainting, getting dizzy, or feeling lightheaded. If your systolic pressure is 60 or below, and your diastolic pressure is 40 or below, you are also at risk of various other conditions. Then, there are those who have a blood pressure of 50/33 or lower, which is most commonly seen in people with kidney problems, arteriosclerosis, and atherosclerosis. A sudden drop in blood pressure can also cause people to experience damage to their vision, hardening of arteries, and a stroke.
What Causes Low Blood Pressure?
There are numerous things that can cause low blood pressure. Severe dehydration, for instance, can cause someone to go into hypovolemic shock, which can be fatal. Anaphylaxis is another form of shock that leads to very low blood pressure. Medication, such as diuretics, can lead to low blood pressure, just like beta-blockers, antidepressants, and heart medication. Consuming too much alcohol or taking narcotics can cause it, including having thyroid problems, pulmonary embolism, heart failure, and Addison’s disease.
Nutrition and Pregnancy:
It is quite common for women to develop low blood pressure when they are pregnant. This is because their arteries and veins will expand and there simply isn’t enough blood available yet to fill it back up. Indeed, a drop of between five and 10 points systolic is normal for pregnant women. This is also one of the reasons why they should supplement with vitamin B12 and folate, so that they can also avoid anemia.
Complications and Dangers of Low Blood Pressure:
Low blood pressure is quite common and usually something that resolves itself. A lot of people have sudden drops in blood pressure when they stand up or after they eat. The latter is known as postprandial hypotension and the first is known as orthostatic hypotension. Sometimes, there is a problem in the communication between the brain and the heart, which is known as neurally mediated hypotension. This is a bigger problem, as it can lead to heart or brain damage, which in turn has the potential to be lethal. It is always important, therefore, to have low blood pressure investigated by a physician, even if it is just to rule out any underlying serious problems. Additionally, getting the proper nutrition, supplementing with vitamin B12, drinking enough water, and exercising regularly are all things that can help keep blood pressure level where it should be.
