The NHS is urging people to see their GP if they think they could have low blood pressure. There are symptoms which many people think about when it comes to this, such as feeling dizzy, however there is one symptom which people may just put down to stress or getting older.
The health service says that one symptom of low blood pressure, aka hypotension, is confusion. If you think this could be the cause, you should seek help as soon as possible. “Low blood pressure is a reading of less than 90/60mmHg. It does not always cause symptoms, but you may need treatment if it does”, the NHS warns.
What causes low blood pressure?
Your blood pressure varies depending on the time of day. It may be low because:
- You’re fit and healthy
- You have inherited it from your parents
- You are getting older
- You’re pregnant
- You have medical conditions such as diabetes
- You are taking certain medicines
What are the symptoms of low blood pressure?
Get your blood pressure checked if you keep getting symptoms like:
- lightheadedness or dizziness
- feeling sick
- blurred vision
- generally feeling weak
- fainting
If you get symptoms when you stand up or suddenly change position, you may have a type of low blood pressure called postural hypotension. The experts say that you should see a GP if you “keep getting symptoms of low blood pressure such as dizziness and fainting.”
How often should I get my blood pressure checked?
If you’re 40 to 74 years old, you should have your blood pressure checked at least once every five years as part of the NHS Health Check. But if you are not in this age bracket, you should always ask your GP for a check if you are concerned
How can I lower my blood pressure?
There are things you can do to help with symptoms of low blood pressure, according to the NHS.
Do
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get up slowly from sitting to standing
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take care when getting out of bed – move slowly from lying to sitting to standing
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eat small, frequent meals – lying down or sitting still for a while after eating may also help
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increase the amount of water you drink
Don’t
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do not sit or stand for long periods
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do not bend down or change posture suddenly
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do not drink too much alcohol