Having low blood pressure isn’t always a sign that you’re suffering from a serious physical problem, but if you are suffering from various low blood pressure symptoms, it may be a good idea to see a doctor and find out whether the underlying cause or causes can be determined. Sometimes, symptoms such as lightheadedness or dizziness could indicate a condition known “postural hypotension”, which may require further investigation.

The doctor will examine your medical age, history, and any specific symptoms associated with your problem. He will also conduct a physical exam and check your pulse rate and blood pressure to provide further data. Other tests may also be performed, such as an electrocardiogram which is helpful for measuring heart rate and rhythm, or an echocardiogram that allows the doctor to see the condition of your heart through an ultrasound.

Causes of Low Blood Pressure:

Low blood pressure symptoms have many possible causes, from the lifestyle choices that you make on a regular basis, to underlying health conditions that you may have, or medication that you take on a regular basis. It’s worth noting that your blood pressure levels will vary throughout the day depending on what you’re doing, and this is perfectly normal. The temperature outside, your diet, and even stress at work could affect the way your blood pressure level looks. This is why it’s important to ensure that when your doctor checks your blood pressure, he does it under similar conditions each time.

If your blood pressure reading is low, chances are that your GP will consider a number of factors, including the time of day, how relaxed or stressed you feel at the time, how much exercise you usually do, your temperature, and if you have had something to eat recently.

Low Blood Pressure Symptoms:

Sometimes, low blood pressure means that there is not enough blood flowing to your vital organs and brain, which can lead to symptoms such as:

  • Lightheadness or dizziness
  • Unsteadiness
  • Blurred vision
  • Fainting
  • Heart palpitations
  • Nausea
  • Confusion

Treatments For Low Blood Pressure:

Often, many people find that low blood pressure can be treated with changes to their lifestyle and dietary choices. Depending on what causes the majority of your symptoms, your doctor may tell you to increase your blood pressure by eating more salt, limiting your consumption of alcohol, or engaging in more regular physical activity to help improve blood flow throughout the body.

To avoid problems with low blood pressure and lessen dizziness episodes, it may be helpful to eat smaller meals more frequently, instead of attempting to eat large amounts of food at certain times. It’s also a good idea to avoid exposure to hot water such as in spas and showers, as this can increase problems with dizziness and nausea.

Depending on your symptoms and the problems that have led to you suffering from lower than normal blood pressure, your doctor should be able to provide you with advice on treatments and behavioral choices that will have the best outcomes for your specific circumstances.