Being dizzy, fatigued, confused, faint, or have blurred vision, lightheaded, nausea, and vomiting – are all classic symptoms of low blood pressure
Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, means different things for different people. While normal blood pressure readings are typically between 90/60 and 120/80 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg), the numbers outside this range can still be OK. A healthy blood pressure reading for your body is based on your medical history, age, and overall health.
However, there may be times when you feel dizzy, fatigued, confused, faint, or lightheaded; have blurred vision; or experience nausea and vomiting—all of which are classic symptoms of low blood pressure. On top of this, you need to seek immediate medical care if you have:
- A rapid pulse
- Shallow breathing
- Cold or clammy skin
We spoke with Dr Samrat Shah, consultant physician, Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, who gave five important tips to follow to bring blood pressure levels to a normal range. “Here’s what you should do, and what the people around you should know to handle the situation effectively,” he said
Lie down immediately
Lie on your back and elevate your legs (at least 12 inches) to help blood flow to your brain.
Stay calm and take a deep breath
Take slow, deep breaths. Panicking can make symptoms worse.
Drink fluids (if conscious and able)
Low BP may be caused by dehydration. Sip water or an electrolyte drink slowly.
Avoid sudden movements
Don’t get up too quickly. When you do feel better, sit up first, then stand slowly.
Eat Something Salty (if advised by your doctor)
Salt helps raise blood pressure temporarily. Only do this if you’re not on a low-sodium diet.
According to Dr Shah, it is also important to track your symptoms like chest pain, confusion, or fainting, as these are red flags and need urgent care. “If your symptoms persist, or if you faint, seek medical attention immediately,” he said.
What People Around You Should Know
Recognize the signs
Be alert if someone looks pale, dizzy, unsteady, confused, or faints.
Help them lie down and raise their legs
This helps restore blood flow to the brain.
Keep them safe and comfortable
Loosen tight clothing, ensure they’re not at risk of falling or injury, and don’t let them stand up alone.
Offer water or electrolytes
Only if they are fully conscious and not choking.
Call emergency services
If the patient is losing consciousness, having chest pain or difficulty breathing, and remains disoriented or unresponsive.
Do not panic
Stay calm and provide reassurance. Panic can worsen the episode for the person experiencing it.
When should you see a doctor?
According to Dr Shah, if the episodes of low blood pressure have become a frequent thing, and you are taking medications for other ailments, it is advised to regularly check with your healthcare provider to know what the real issue could be.
“If it is accompanied by symptoms like fainting, blurred vision, or confusion, go to the hospital immediately,” he added.
How to avoid low blood pressure?
There are a few ways you can modify daily behaviours that may help regulate your blood pressure. Here are a few other changes you can make to your diet to help raise your blood pressure:
- Eat small meals more frequently, as big meals may cause more dramatic drops in blood pressure, as your body works harder to digest larger meals.
- Stop drinking alcohol, as dehydration lowers blood pressure.
- If you exercise outdoors in extreme heat, take frequent breaks, and be sure to increase hydration efforts.
- Avoiding spending long amounts of time in saunas, hot tubs, and steam rooms
- Change body positions (such as standing up) slowly.
- Avoid prolonged bed rest.
- Wear compression stockings, which help blood move back upward from your legs and feet.
