What is hypotension?
Hypotension is a condition characterized by consistently low blood pressure readings. It is a disorder of blood flow to the heart and other vital organs. The values for diagnosing hypotension are systolic (high) pressure less than 90 mm Hg and diastolic (low) pressure less than 60 mm Hg.
Types of hypotension & Causes
There are several types of hypotension, the most characteristic of which are:
Orthostatic hypotension: It refers to the sudden drop in blood pressure, which is caused when we suddenly get up from a lying or sitting position. This type of hypotension is particularly common in older adults.
Postprandial hypotension: The drop in blood pressure occurs 1-2 hours after consuming a large, high-carbohydrate meal.
Neuro-mediated hypotension: In this case, a drop in blood pressure is observed, usually after continuous standing. It is observed mainly in young adults and children.
Secondary hypotension: When it is a symptom of a disease or a side effect of medications.
Idiopathic hypotension: When the body, a common phenomenon in women, presents a lower blood pressure in its normal state, without creating further problems
Seasonal hypotension: It is called this because it only occurs in the summer months due to the increased temperature and is a very common phenomenon that does not require special treatment beyond treating temporary symptoms.
Other causes
- Dehydration: when we are dehydrated, blood volume decreases and blood pressure can drop significantly. This may be due to insufficient fluid intake, diarrhea, etc.
- Endocrine disorders: Diabetes and hypoglycemia are associated with the occurrence of hypotension.
- Medication: such as diuretics, medications for hypertension, etc.
- Cardiac problems: such as arrhythmias.
- Pregnancy: hypotension is observed in women in the first weeks of pregnancy.
- Old age: over the years, normal blood pressure drops and it is observed that people over 65 often experience hypotension.
- Nutritional deficiencies: deficiencies in iron and folic acid are associated with hypotension.
- Blood loss
- Allergic reaction
Symptoms of Hypotension
Hypotension can cause symptoms due to very low blood flow in the arteries and veins, resulting in low oxygen and nutrient delivery to the body’s vital organs. In most cases, people with hypotension have the following symptoms:
- Staggering and dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Extreme fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
How to treat hypotension
The way to treat it depends on several factors such as age, overall health and the diet that each person follows.
Symptoms subside when someone lies down and raises their legs to the level of the heart. Doctors may recommend some additional lifestyle changes such as, for example, getting up slowly from the bed or chair and not crossing their legs when sitting. Also, certain isometric exercises and the use of compression stockings are recommended for better blood circulation.
Exercise seems to have a positive effect on the phenomenon of hypotension as well as a mild form of exercise can reduce venous congestion.
Medication is indicated only when all available options fail. In this case, drugs that mainly contain corticosteroids and midodrine are used. Taking medication as well as whether the person is willing to comply with the instructions given play a role in regulating the pressure.
Hypotension and nutrition
Treatment of hypotension is done with certain dietary changes as well as changes in the general lifestyle to help the overall health of the individual.
The nutritional recommendations state:
- Adequate fluid intake
Sufficient consumption of water and other fluids is essential to prevent dehydration. An average adult living in a temperate climate loses approximately 2 liters of water per day. So this amount is what they need to replace and corresponds to 10 glasses per day. However, the recommendations are individualized, as they vary depending on gender, stage of life and physical activity.
- Eating small and frequent meals
Small and frequent meals are very important for people with hypotension so that there is a continuous flow of energy and nutrients in the body, without long breaks. Especially for people with postprandial hypotension, it is important to consume frequent and small meals with a low carbohydrate content.
- Avoiding alcohol consumption
Alcohol causes vasodilation, dehydrates the body and lowers blood pressure. Therefore, people with a tendency to hypotension should avoid it, especially in the summer months.
- Increase salt intake
Salt is perhaps the most important ingredient in treating hypotension. Especially when the person experiences symptoms of hypotension, it seems that immediate consumption of a food rich in salt is necessary. Easy ways to increase salt in the diet:
- Salty snacks e.g. crackers, cookies, chips
- Extra salt in the portion
- Add 1 tsp of salt to a glass of water
- Foods rich in folic acid
The absence of iron and folic acid in our diet can lead to anemia and consequently to a drop in blood pressure. Foods rich in iron and folic acid include liver, asparagus and dark leafy vegetables.
- Foods rich in vitamin B12
The lack of this vitamin has been linked to orthostatic hypotension. We will find it in foods such as meat, eggs and dairy products.
- Coffee & Tea
The caffeine contained in large quantities in coffee and tea increases blood pressure, especially in people who do not often consume large amounts of caffeine.
In conclusion
It is important to maintain blood pressure at normal levels, as both hypertension and hypotension are likely to lead to unwanted symptoms and complications. On the other hand, let’s not forget that there are people who live with hypotension without experiencing any particular symptoms most of the time. Small changes in lifestyle and diet are enough to make the person feel better.
