Low blood pressure isn’t inherently a bad thing. In today’s society, high blood pressure is more of a problem. Nevertheless, if blood pressure is too low, complaints and symptoms can occur that limit the quality of life of those affected.
While abnormally high blood pressure (hypertension) is one of the most common lifestyle diseases and is associated with consequences such as arteriosclerosis and circulatory disorders, so-called hypotension is less of a problem. Usually, low blood pressure has only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. In addition, it is associated with a longer life expectancy and is therefore not regarded as an independent disease. However, if symptoms occur that limit the quality of life of those affected, the low blood pressure should be treated.
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Causes of low blood pressure
When a person’s arterial blood pressure falls below 100/60 mmHg , it is said to have hypotension. This affects about 5 percent of the population in Germany. There are several possible causes for such low blood pressure. In addition to a genetic predisposition, a weak heart muscle, hypothyroidism , Parkinson’s disease and drugs or medication can also be responsible. In particular, a sudden fall in blood pressure can be traced back to medical emergencies such as a heart attack or blood poisoning ( septic shock ). Likewise in older peoplethe risk of an undersupply of the organs with blood and the nutrients and oxygen it contains. The following symptoms may occur.
Low blood pressure: 5 symptoms of hypotension
1. Circulatory problems
When getting out of bed in the morning, not a few people feel dizzy or black out. This is due to the sudden redistribution of blood towards the trunk and legs due to gravity. This phenomenon is called orthostatic or postural hypotension and also affects people who normally have normal blood pressure. However, if you already have low blood pressure, the rapid change of position can result in a significant undersupply of your brain and, in the worst case, even in faintingto lead. Milder symptoms include dizziness and ringing in the ears. To counteract these symptoms, you should take your time getting up, first sit up in bed, drink a glass of water, move your limbs a little, and then stand up slowly and carefully. You should see a doctor to see if there are any serious causes.
Tip: Exercise is the best remedy for low blood pressure in the morning. It is therefore best to get on your bike for your commute or get off one stop earlier to walk the rest of the way.
2. Cold hands and feet
The reduced blood flow is not only noticeable in the brain, but can also affect the extremities. Cold feet or fingers are particularly common. Those affected also report an increased sensitivity to cold and a certain sensitivity to the weather. While these symptoms are not serious, they can be distressing and affect quality of life. Circulation- enhancing exercises help : rotate your wrists, alternately clench and open your fists, climb a few steps or stand on tiptoe for a moment.
3. Fatigue
If the brain in particular is affected by low blood pressure and an undersupply of oxygen, increased fatigue can occur in addition to the circulatory problems mentioned above. It can also lead to a loss of your ability to concentrate and mood swings. Due to the tiredness and exhaustion, quite a few of those affected are more easily irritable.
4. Palpitations
When the blood pressure in the vessels drops too much, your body usually tries to compensate with a faster heartbeat. In this way, it counteracts reduced blood flow to your organs and ensures that all important body regions are supplied with blood and oxygen. A higher pulse and even tachycardia can therefore occur if blood pressure is too low.
5. Chest pain
If the blood pressure is so low that the heart muscle is no longer getting enough blood, you may even experience chest pain , chest tightness (angina pectoris) or shortness of breath. However, this is rather rare and usually only occurs when blood pressure is significantly reduced.
Tip: In addition to the normal blood pressure measurement, your treating doctor can also use other tests, such as the Schellong standing test, to find out whether your blood pressure is normal in everyday and stressful situations or whether it requires treatment.
