• Published on: May 02, 2022
  • 5 minute read
  • By: Second Medic Expert

Understanding Low Blood Pressure

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What is low blood pressure?

Medical professionals sometimes speak of "low" blood pressure as any reading below 90 mm Hg systolic (the upper number in a blood pressure reading) or 60 mm Hg diastolic (the lower number). Many people naturally have blood pressures that fall into this range. Anything below these "normal" numbers might be considered low and could point to an underlying health problem. That's why it's important to see a doctor if you experience symptoms of low blood pressure.

What are the causes of low blood pressure?

There are many potential causes of low blood pressure, and sometimes the cause is not yet known. However, some common causes include dehydration, certain medications.

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?

The cause of low blood pressure isn't always clear. It may be associated with the following:

  • Pregnancy
  • Hormonal problems such as an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), diabetes, or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
  • Some over-the-counter medications
  • Some prescription medicines such as for high blood pressure, depression or Parkinson’s disease
  • Heart failure
  • Heart arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)
  • Widening, or dilation, of the blood vessels
  • Heat exhaustion or heat stroke
  • Liver disease

There are a few different things that can cause low blood pressure, and it's important to understand what might be causing yours before beginning any treatment. SecondMedic Online has a great overview of the different causes of low blood pressure, which can help you better understand your own condition. One common cause of low blood pressure is dehydration, which occurs when your body doesn't have enough fluids. This can happen if you sweat excessively, vomit frequently, or have diarrhea. Other causes include pregnancy, being underweight, heart problems, endocrine disorders (such as diabetes or Addison's disease), and certain medications.

It is important to understand the different types of blood pressure in order to know what is normal for you. Blood pressure readings are given as two numbers- the systolic number and the diastolic number. The systolic number is the top number, and it reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart contracts (or beats). The diastolic number is the bottom number, and it reflects the pressure in your arteries when your heart relaxes between beats. A blood pressure reading of 120/80 or lower is considered normal. If you have low blood pressure, it means that you have a lower-than-normal blood pressure. This can be caused by things such as salt depletion, dehydration, or medications.

Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, is a blood pressure condition in which your systolic blood pressure falls below 90 mmHg and your diastolic blood pressure falls below 60 mmHg. In other words, it means that the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries is lower than normal. Low blood pressure usually doesn't cause any symptoms. However, if you have low blood pressure and also feel lightheaded or dizzy, it could be a sign that you're not getting enough oxygen to your brain. This can happen when low blood pressure causes a decrease in the number of red blood cells (anemia) or when it slows the rate of flow of blood through your veins and arteries.

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is a condition in which your blood pressure falls below the normal range. A blood pressure reading of 90/60 or lower is generally considered to be low blood pressure. Many factors can contribute to low blood pressure, including dehydration, overheating, heart problems, and medications. If you have low blood pressure, it's important to drink plenty of fluids, avoid overheating, and monitor your symptoms. In some cases, you may need medication to help raise your blood pressure. If you're concerned about your low blood pressure or experience any associated symptoms, be sure to speak with your doctor.

Low blood pressure is a condition in which blood pressure falls below the normal range. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. There are many possible causes of low blood pressure, including dehydration, medications, and certain medical conditions. If you are experiencing symptoms of low blood pressure, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and treatment options.

A person's blood pressure is determined by two things: how much blood the heart pumps and how resistant the arteries are to the flow of blood. If either one of those factors changes, blood pressure will change. Low blood pressure (hypotension) usually means that not enough blood is being pumped out of the heart or that the arteries are too resistant to allow blood to flow easily. There can be many different causes for low blood pressure, including dehydration, medications, and hormonal problems. Sometimes it's difficult to determine the cause, and in some cases, it may just be a naturally occurring condition. It's important to rule out any serious underlying conditions if you're experiencing low blood pressure symptoms.

Low blood pressure is a serious medical condition that can cause problems such as dizziness, fainting, and blurred vision. Left untreated, low blood pressure can lead to more serious health problems, such as heart attack and stroke. There are many possible causes of low blood pressure, including dehydration, medications, and certain medical conditions. Some people have low blood pressure due to their genes. If you have low blood pressure, it is important to seek medical help. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your condition. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to raise your blood pressure. If you are dehydrated, you may need to drink more fluids.

A blood pressure reading of less than 90/60mmHg is usually considered low blood pressure. Low blood pressure can be caused by a number of things, including dehydration, heart problems, and medications. It can also occur as a side effect of some recreational drugs or extreme weight loss. If you are experiencing symptoms associated with low blood pressure, such as dizziness, blurred vision, or lightheadedness, it is important to seek medical assistance. Untreated low blood pressure can lead to more serious health complications. Low blood pressure is a condition where the blood pressure falls below the normal range. The blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as it travels around your body. A healthy blood pressure should be between 120/80 and 140/90. If your systolic reading (top number) is below 120, or your diastolic reading (bottom number) is below 80, then you have low blood pressure. Low blood pressure can cause problems such as dizziness and fainting, so it's important to get it checked out by a doctor.  

Low blood pressure is medically termed as hypotension. It is a condition in which the blood pressure falls below the normal range. Most cases of hypotension are not due to any underlying medical condition but are caused by factors such as standing for long periods, dehydration, or anxiety. However, there are several underlying medical conditions that can cause low blood pressure. These include heart disease, liver disease, kidney disease, and diabetes. In addition, some medications can also cause low blood pressure. If you are experiencing symptoms of low blood pressure (such as lightheadedness or dizziness), it is important to see your doctor to determine the underlying cause.

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when the pressure in your arteries falls below the normal range. It's generally considered a good thing when blood pressure falls too low because it means that the heart doesn't have to work as hard to pump blood through your body. However, if you have low blood pressure for an extended period of time, you may start to experience symptoms like lightheadedness, dizziness, and fainting. In severe cases, low blood pressure can even lead to seizures or coma. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor right away.

There are many different factors that can contribute to low blood pressure, and it's important to consult with a medical professional to determine the underlying cause in your case. However, some common causes of low blood pressure include dehydration, pregnancy, certain medications, and endocrine disorders. Dehydration is a common cause of low blood pressure, particularly in hot weather or during strenuous exercise. When you're dehydrated, your body doesn't have enough fluid volume and your heart has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. This can lead to low blood pressure. Drinking plenty of fluids and replenishing electrolytes (such as sodium) can help prevent dehydration and keep your blood pressure in healthy range.

There are many factors that can contribute to low blood pressure, and it's important to understand all of them in order to maintain your health. Medications, dehydration, and even certain medical conditions can lead to low blood pressure. That's why it's important to consult with a second medical opinion online before making any decisions about your health. When it comes to understanding low blood pressure, there are a few key things you need to keep in mind. First, it's important to remember that everyone is different. What may be considered low blood pressure for one person may be completely normal for another. That's why it's so important to consult with a medical professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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breath

Shortness of Breath Causes: From Common Triggers to Serious Health Conditions

Shortness of breath, medically known as dyspnea, is a symptom that ranges from mild discomfort during exertion to a distressing sensation of not getting enough air. In India, increasing air pollution, lifestyle diseases and respiratory infections have made breathlessness a frequent complaint across age groups. Understanding shortness of breath causes is essential to identify when it is harmless and when it signals a medical emergency.

 

What Is Shortness of Breath?

Shortness of breath refers to difficulty breathing or a feeling of air hunger.

It may present as:

  • rapid breathing

  • shallow breathing

  • tightness in the chest

  • inability to take a deep breath

The sensation can develop suddenly or gradually.

 

Common and Benign Causes of Shortness of Breath

Physical Exertion

During exercise, the body demands more oxygen.

Temporary breathlessness during:

  • climbing stairs

  • running

  • heavy physical work

is normal and resolves with rest.

 

Anxiety and Panic Attacks

Stress and anxiety alter breathing patterns.

Symptoms include:

  • rapid breathing

  • chest tightness

  • dizziness

These episodes often resolve with calming techniques.

 

Respiratory Causes of Shortness of Breath

Asthma

Asthma causes airway narrowing and inflammation.

Symptoms include:

  • wheezing

  • chest tightness

  • breathlessness during exertion or at night

Asthma is a leading cause of chronic breathlessness.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Risk factors include:

  • smoking

  • indoor air pollution

  • occupational exposure

WHO identifies COPD as a major cause of breathlessness in adults.

 

Respiratory Infections

Infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis reduce lung capacity.

Breathlessness may be accompanied by:

  • cough

  • fever

  • chest pain

Severe infections require urgent treatment.

 

Heart-Related Causes of Shortness of Breath

Heart Failure

The heart fails to pump blood efficiently.

This leads to:

  • fluid accumulation in lungs

  • breathlessness on exertion

  • breathlessness while lying flat

ICMR data shows heart disease as a major contributor to unexplained breathlessness.

 

Coronary Artery Disease

Reduced blood supply to the heart can cause:

  • breathlessness

  • chest discomfort

  • fatigue

This may occur even without chest pain in some individuals.

 

Blood and Metabolic Causes

Anemia

Low hemoglobin reduces oxygen delivery.

Common symptoms include:

  • fatigue

  • breathlessness on mild activity

  • pale skin

NFHS-5 highlights anemia as highly prevalent in India.

 

Thyroid Disorders

Hyperthyroidism increases metabolic demand, causing breathlessness.

Hypothyroidism may contribute indirectly through weight gain and reduced stamina.

 

Lung Circulation Disorders

Pulmonary Embolism

A blood clot in the lungs causes sudden, severe breathlessness.

This is a medical emergency and may be accompanied by:

  • chest pain

  • coughing blood

  • fainting

Immediate treatment is critical.

 

Lifestyle-Related Causes

Obesity

Excess body weight restricts lung expansion.

Breathlessness occurs due to:

  • increased oxygen demand

  • reduced lung volumes

Weight management improves breathing efficiency.

 

Sedentary Lifestyle

Poor physical conditioning reduces respiratory muscle strength.

Even mild exertion may cause breathlessness.

 

Environmental and Occupational Factors

Air Pollution

Pollutants irritate airways and reduce lung function.

Urban populations experience higher rates of breathlessness.

Workplace Exposure

Dust, chemicals and fumes increase respiratory risk.

Protective measures are essential in high-risk occupations.

When Shortness of Breath Is a Warning Sign

Seek urgent care if breathlessness:

  • starts suddenly

  • worsens rapidly

  • occurs at rest

  • is associated with chest pain, bluish lips or confusion

These may indicate life-threatening conditions.

 

How Shortness of Breath Is Diagnosed

Evaluation may include:

  • physical examination

  • chest imaging

  • blood tests

  • lung function tests

  • heart evaluation

Diagnosis focuses on identifying the root cause.

 

Preventive Measures and Lifestyle Care

Prevention includes:

  • regular physical activity

  • pollution protection

  • smoking cessation

  • weight control

  • managing chronic conditions

Preventive healthcare reduces long-term risk.

 

Importance of Early Medical Evaluation

Delayed diagnosis can worsen outcomes, especially in:

  • heart disease

  • lung infections

  • anemia

Early care improves treatment success.

 

Conclusion

Shortness of breath causes range from temporary exertion and anxiety to serious heart, lung and blood disorders. While occasional breathlessness may be harmless, persistent or sudden symptoms should never be ignored. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking timely medical evaluation can prevent complications and save lives. Paying attention to changes in breathing is an essential step toward protecting overall health and wellbeing.

 

References

  • Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Respiratory and Cardiac Health Reports

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Breathlessness and Chronic Disease Guidelines

  • National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Anemia and Respiratory Health Data

  • Lancet – Dyspnea Evaluation and Outcomes Research

  • NITI Aayog – Non-Communicable Disease Prevention Reports

  • Statista – Respiratory Disease and Air Pollution Trends

See all

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