Low blood pressure occurs when blood flow through the arteries is reduced. Typically, a reading below 90/60 mmHg is considered low blood pressure, according to the Hindustan Times .
Although low blood pressure is not as worrisome as high blood pressure, it can still cause dangerous complications. Low blood pressure often causes fainting, fatigue, and cold or pale skin.
Mr. Mohit Bhutani, a cardiologist at Amrita Hospital (India), shared 5 signs and 5 common complications of low blood pressure.
Low blood pressure can also cause fatigue due to reduced blood flow to muscles and organs.
Signs of low blood pressure
1. Dizziness, lightheadedness
One of the most common signs of low blood pressure is dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when changing positions quickly.
The reason is that the brain does not receive enough blood. Therefore, we will temporarily feel dizzy and lightheaded.
2. Fatigue and weakness
Low blood pressure can also cause fatigue and weakness due to reduced blood flow to muscles and organs.
When blood pressure is low, body parts will lack energy and you will have more difficulty performing daily activities.
3. Fainting
In severe cases, low blood pressure can cause you to faint. This condition occurs when the brain does not receive enough blood, leading to a temporary loss of consciousness.
Fainting is dangerous to yourself and others, especially while driving or operating machinery.
4. Rapid breathing
Low blood pressure can affect the respiratory system, causing rapid or shallow breathing. When blood pressure is low, the body tries to increase breathing rate to improve oxygen supply.
5. Cold and sweaty skin
Low blood pressure causes reduced blood circulation and cold, sweaty skin. Extremities, such as the hands and feet, feel cool to the touch and the skin becomes pale.
Complications of low blood pressure
1. Internal organ damage
Prolonged low blood pressure can lead to reduced blood supply to vital organs such as the heart, kidneys and brain. Over time, these organs can become damaged.
Dizziness is one of the most common symptoms of poor blood circulation to the brain.
Symptoms of reduced blood flow to the brain include slurred speech, sudden weakness in the limbs, difficulty swallowing, loss of balance, partial or complete loss of vision, double vision, dizziness, numbness or tingling in the arms or legs, and vomiting. These symptoms may only last for a short time.
2. Falls and injuries
Dizziness and lightheadedness caused by low blood pressure can lead to falls and injuries. Therefore, people with low blood pressure should avoid changing positions quickly.
3. Shock
Shock occurs when the body doesn't receive enough blood to function properly, leading to organ failure and life-threatening complications.
4. Decreased cognitive function
Insufficient blood flow to the brain can impair cognitive function, affecting memory, concentration, and decision making.
5. Complications during surgery
Low blood pressure can increase the risk of complications during surgery or medical intervention, such as excessive bleeding or inadequate tissue oxygenation.
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