Low Blood Pressure: Here's everything you should know about it

Low blood pressure or hypotension can be caused when the blood levels in the body drop beyond the normal reading. Dehydration, fever, fainting, depression, nausea, fatigue, lack of concentration, blurred vision and unusual thirst can cause low BP. Low BP also differs from person to person, and age also plays a key role in determining what low BP is. Food items rich in fibre and vitamin B-12, caffeine, juices, should be included in the diet if one is suffering from low BP. In healthy people, low blood pressure without any symptoms is not usually a concern and does not need to be treated. But if it's frequent, then it may cause inadequate blood flow to the heart and other vital organs. Above mentioned are some common symptoms of low BP.  One must rest and visit a doctor if the condition worsens. But there are some other underlying causes of low blood pressure, that not many speak about. These causes can be dangerous, and hence one needs to know about them. 

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Pregnancy:

Pregnant women usually suffer from low BP, since during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy, it's normal for blood pressure to drop.

Blood loss:

A decrease in blood volume causes low blood pressure. Blood loss because of dehydration, internal bleeding, trauma, leads to a severe drop in blood pressure, thereby causing low BP. 

 

Medications:

Medicines can cause low blood pressure too. Medicines that treat hypertension, Parkinson's disease, antidepressants and erectile dysfunction drugs, to name a few may cause low blood pressure.

Heart problems:

Problems with heart valves, heart attack and heart failure can lead to low BP. This happens because your heart may not be able to circulate enough blood to meet your body’s needs.

Allergic reaction:

Major allergic reaction in people who are allergic to some medicines and food items can cause low BP.  Because, this type of reaction is described by breathing problems, itching, swollen throat and a sudden, dramatic fall in blood pressure.

Deficiencies:

A lack of vitamin B-12 and folic acid can cause anaemia, which in turn can lead to low blood pressure. If you ever feel nauseous or experience shallow breathing, then you must consult a doctor right away!