• 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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Chest pain

Chest Pain While Breathing: Causes, Warning Signs, and When to Seek Urgent Care

Chest pain is one of the most alarming symptoms a person can experience, especially when it worsens during breathing. Chest pain while breathing, also known as pleuritic chest pain, often indicates involvement of the lungs, chest wall or surrounding structures. While some causes are mild, others can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

In India, respiratory infections, air pollution, sedentary lifestyles and delayed medical care contribute significantly to chest-related symptoms.

 

What Does Chest Pain While Breathing Mean?

Chest pain while breathing refers to pain that:

  • worsens with deep inhalation or exhalation

  • may feel sharp, stabbing or burning

  • can be localized or spread across the chest

Pain intensity often increases with coughing or movement.

 

Common Causes of Chest Pain While Breathing

Lung Infections (Pneumonia)

Pneumonia inflames lung tissue and surrounding membranes.

Symptoms include:

  • chest pain while breathing

  • fever

  • cough

  • breathlessness

ICMR data identifies pneumonia as a major cause of respiratory illness in India.

 

Pleuritis (Inflammation of Lung Lining)

The pleura are thin membranes surrounding the lungs.

When inflamed:

  • breathing causes friction

  • sharp chest pain occurs

Pleuritis often follows viral infections or pneumonia.

 

Pulmonary Embolism

A blood clot in the lungs causes:

  • sudden chest pain

  • rapid breathing

  • severe breathlessness

This is a medical emergency requiring immediate care.

 

Chest Wall Muscle Strain

Muscle strain due to:

  • heavy lifting

  • intense coughing

  • poor posture

can cause pain during breathing or movement.

 

Costochondritis

Inflammation of rib cartilage causes:

  • localized chest pain

  • pain worsened by breathing or pressing on the chest

This condition is painful but not life-threatening.

 

Pneumothorax (Collapsed Lung)

Air leakage into the chest cavity causes:

  • sudden sharp chest pain

  • breathlessness

Often seen after trauma or in individuals with lung disease.

 

Heart-Related Causes

Though heart pain usually does not worsen with breathing, conditions such as:

  • pericarditis (heart lining inflammation)

can cause chest pain that changes with respiration.

 

Acid Reflux and Esophageal Spasm

Gastrointestinal causes may mimic chest pain.

However:

  • pain usually relates to meals

  • breathing-related pain should be evaluated carefully

 

Anxiety and Panic Disorders

Anxiety can cause:

  • chest tightness

  • rapid breathing

  • discomfort while breathing

Medical causes must be ruled out before attributing pain to anxiety.

 

Warning Signs That Require Emergency Attention

Seek immediate medical care if chest pain while breathing is associated with:

  • sudden onset

  • severe breathlessness

  • bluish lips or fingers

  • dizziness or fainting

  • sweating

  • coughing up blood

These may indicate life-threatening conditions.

 

Risk Factors for Serious Chest Pain

Higher risk occurs in people with:

  • smoking history

  • recent surgery or long travel

  • lung disease

  • heart disease

  • clotting disorders

Early evaluation is critical.

 

Diagnostic Evaluation

Doctors may recommend:

  • physical examination

  • chest X-ray

  • ECG

  • blood tests

  • CT scan

Timely diagnosis saves lives.

 

Why Chest Pain Should Not Be Ignored

Ignoring chest pain can lead to:

  • delayed treatment

  • worsening respiratory failure

  • preventable complications

WHO emphasises early symptom recognition for better outcomes.

 

Impact of Air Pollution and Lifestyle

Air pollution increases:

  • lung inflammation

  • infection risk

Sedentary habits reduce lung capacity, worsening symptoms.

 

Preventive Measures

Helpful preventive steps include:

  • avoiding smoking

  • staying physically active

  • managing respiratory infections early

  • maintaining good posture

  • staying hydrated

Preventive care reduces risk.

 

Role of Preventive Health Checkups

Regular health screening helps detect:

  • early lung disease

  • heart risk factors

  • chronic inflammation

Early intervention prevents emergencies.

 

When Chest Pain Is Less Likely Serious

Pain may be less concerning if:

  • localized

  • reproducible on touch

  • improves with rest

However, medical confirmation is still necessary.

 

Importance of Timely Medical Consultation

Chest pain should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Delaying care can:

  • increase complications

  • raise mortality risk

Early action saves lives.

 

Conclusion

Chest pain while breathing is a critical symptom that should never be ignored. While causes range from muscle strain and infections to serious lung and heart conditions, only proper medical evaluation can determine the exact cause. Early diagnosis, timely treatment and preventive care are essential to protect respiratory and cardiovascular health. When it comes to chest pain, it is always safer to act early than to wait.

 

References

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

  • World Health Organization (WHO) – Chest Pain and Respiratory Symptoms Guidelines

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

  • Lancet – Pulmonary Embolism and Chest Pain Research

  • NITI Aayog – Preventive Healthcare and Early Symptom Recognition

See all

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