• 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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Nutritional Deficiencies in Indian Kids

Nutritional Deficiencies in Indian Kids: Recognizing, Preventing & Overcoming “Hidden Hunger”

Every parent wants their child to grow up healthy — tall, strong, smart, and full of energy. But in India, many kids suffer from what is known as “hidden hunger.” It means that even though they are eating, their diet lacks essential nutrients. These nutritional deficiencies can affect growth, learning, immunity, and long-term health. In this blog, we’ll explore the major nutritional deficiencies in Indian kids, what causes them, how to detect them, and what parents can do. Let’s dive into nutritional deficiencies in Indian kids.

 

What Are the Most Common Nutritional Deficiencies?

Based on recent research and national surveys, the following are among the most widespread deficiencies in Indian children:

  • Iron Deficiency / Anaemia
    A large percentage of Indian kids (especially under-5s) have low hemoglobin and low iron stores. Anaemia can cause tiredness, slow cognitive development, and lowered immunity. Lippincott Journals+2PMC+2
     

  • Vitamin A Deficiency
    Vitamin A is essential for good vision, immunity, and healthy cells. Many children under 5 show sub-clinical deficiency; some show clinical signs like night blindness. Lippincott Journals+1
     

  • Iodine Deficiency
    Iodine is critical for thyroid hormone production, which affects brain development. Lack of iodine can lead to goitre, delayed mental development, and poor school performance. Lippincott Journals+2thyrocare.com+2
     

  • Vitamin D Deficiency
    Even though India is sunny, many children have low vitamin D — due to indoor living, limited sun exposure, skin coverage, or dietary gaps. This impacts bone health, growth, and risks rickets. PMC+1
     

  • Protein-Energy Malnutrition (PEM)
    In poorer or marginalized communities, children may not get enough protein or calories. This leads to underweight, wasting, stunting, and weakened immunity. Lippincott Journals+2HDFC ERGO+2
     

  • Other Micronutrients (Vitamin B12, folate, zinc etc.)
    Deficiencies in B12 & folate can affect cell division, blood production, nerve function; zinc deficiency weakens immunity & slows growth. PMC+2nanhedil.com+2
     

 

Why Do These Deficiencies Happen?

Understanding the causes helps in prevention:

  1. Dietary Factors
    Many diets are heavy in cereals or starches but low in diversity. Meals may lack fruits, vegetables, animal-source foods (meat, eggs, fish) or fortified products.
     

  2. Bioavailability of Nutrients
    Even when foods contain nutrients, they may not be absorbed well. For example, plant-based iron is less readily absorbed, phytates in grains and legumes can reduce absorption.
     

  3. Socioeconomic Constraints
    Poverty, food insecurity, access issues, lack of awareness, and sometimes traditional/cultural food beliefs limit access to nutrient-rich foods.
     

  4. Living Conditions and Health
    Frequent infections, parasitic infestations, poor hygiene, etc., can increase nutrient loss or demand. Also sunlight exposure (important for vitamin D) is inadequate in many cases.
     

  5. Gaps in Implementation of Prevention Programs
    Though India has multiple programs (fortification, supplement distribution, ICDS, National Nutrition Mission etc.), challenges remain in reach, compliance, quality, and behavioural change.
     

 

Effects of Nutritional Deficiencies

These deficiencies have short-term and long-term effects:

  • Growth stunting (children don’t reach their full height potential)
     

  • Wasting (low weight for height), underweight
     

  • Impaired cognitive development & learning difficulties
     

  • Weak immune system ? more infections
     

  • Delayed motor skills, poor school performance
     

  • Bone deformities (rickets, weak bones)
     

  • Poor quality of life; in severe cases, increased mortality
     

 

How to Detect & Diagnose Early

Taking action early helps avoid permanent harm. Key strategies include:

  • Regular growth monitoring: Checking weight, height, BMI for age
     

  • Look for signs: Pale skin or lips, tiredness, delayed milestones, frequent illness, bone pain or deformities (knees bowing, wrist/ankle enlargement)
     

  • Lab tests:
     

    • Haemoglobin & complete blood count
       

    • Serum ferritin for iron stores
       

    • Serum levels for vitamin A (retinol)
       

    • 25-OH vitamin D test
       

    • Serum B12, folate
       

    • Urinary iodine excretion or salt iodine test
       

    • Protein / albumin levels
       

Using broad vitamin profiles (like those from Thyrocare) can help screen for multiple deficiencies in one go.

 

Foods, Diet & Prevention: What Parents / Caregivers Can Do

Here are practical steps parents can take:

  • Diversify diet: Include pulses, legumes, eggs, dairy, meat (if non-vegetarian), fish; plenty of green leafy vegetables & fruits.
     

  • Fortified foods: Use iodised salt; choose cereals / milk products fortified with vitamins & iron.
     

  • Sunlight exposure: Encourage outdoor activities; even short daily sun exposure (face, arms) helps vitamin D.
     

  • Supplementation when needed: Under doctor guidance, provide vitamin A doses, iron/folic acid, vitamin D etc., especially in high-risk children.
     

  • Hygiene & health care: Prevent worm infections, diarrhoea etc. which can drain nutrients. Ensure vaccinations.
     

  • Education & awareness: Teach families importance of nutrition, balanced meals, what local foods can provide what nutrients.
     

 

What Parents Should Ask Healthcare Providers

  • Ask whether your child needs screening for deficiencies (e.g., iron, vitamin A, D, B12).
     

  • If lab tests are suggested, check whether it’s comprehensive or narrow, cost, and follow-up.
     

  • Seek help for dietary planning, perhaps from nutritionists or public health bodies.
     

  • Learn about local government/NGO programs—free or subsidized supplementation or fortified food programs.
     

 

When to Seek Medical Help

If your child has:

  • Persistent anaemia symptoms (very pale, lethargic)
     

  • Growth issues (falling off growth charts)
     

  • Bone deformities or pain
     

  • Severe or recurrent infections
     

  • Unusual signs like night blindness, goitre
     

Then get a medical evaluation. Early intervention can make a big difference.

 

Conclusion & Call to Action

Nutritional deficiencies in Indian kids are common—but many are preventable or treatable. By recognizing risks, ensuring good diet, doing appropriate lab tests, and using supplements or fortified foods when needed, children can grow healthier, smarter, and stronger.

If you’re concerned that your child may have one or more of these deficiencies, talk to a trusted pediatrician or nutritionist, and consider getting a comprehensive vitamin & nutrition profile done (for example through Thyrocare or SecondMedic) to know exactly where improvements are needed. Don’t wait—every child deserves a strong foundation.

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