Low blood pressure can stem from a medical condition that requires treatment, and in such cases, medication may be necessary. A cardiologist at the Docmed clinic, Dr. Natalya Podgorodetskaya, explained this to socialbites.ca.
Clinical guidelines consider a blood pressure reading of 100 over 60 mm Hg as a possible threshold for men and 95 over 60 mm Hg for women. Those numbers, however, are not a universal rule. In many healthy individuals, resting blood pressure falls within this range without signaling a problem. In some people, especially athletes in peak physical condition or individuals living in high-altitude, subtropical, or tropical regions, these values may reflect a normal variant rather than illness. This condition is often described as physiological hypotension, a term used by clinicians to distinguish it from a disease-driven drop in pressure. (Attribution: Docmed clinic) Dr. Podgorodetskaya noted that physiological hypotension does not automatically require intervention and may simply be part of a person’s normal physiology.
When hypotension is pathological, it carries a higher risk of falls and related injuries. In such cases, the treatment goal is to reduce the frequency of fainting episodes and to improve overall daily functioning and quality of life. Practical strategies emphasize gradual changes in posture to avoid sudden dizziness, maintaining a comfortable environment with good ventilation, and limiting alcohol intake. Regular physical activity tailored to the individual’s tolerance level is encouraged, and some clinicians recommend sleeping with the head of the bed elevated to help stabilize morning blood pressure. These measures are designed to reduce symptoms and prevent accidental injuries that can come with low pressure. (Attribution: Docmed clinic)
Hydration plays a crucial role. Adequate fluid intake helps maintain circulating blood volume, supporting stable pressure throughout the day. Unlike some people with high blood pressure who restrict salt intake, those with low blood pressure are often advised to ensure sufficient salt consumption unless a clinician identifies a specific heart or kidney condition that would call for adjustment. This approach can help preserve vascular tone and venous return, especially in hot weather or during physical activity. (Attribution: Docmed clinic)
Another supportive measure involves compression stockings. By reducing blood pooling in the legs, these garments assist the return of blood to the heart, contributing to steadier blood pressure, particularly upon standing. Clinicians may recommend them as part of a broader plan to minimize dizziness and lightheadedness in daily life. (Attribution: Docmed clinic)
Pharmacological therapy enters the picture mainly in secondary hypotension, where the low pressure results from another medical issue. Conditions such as hypothyroidism, adrenal insufficiency, exposure to certain heavy metals, shock, or other acute illnesses can trigger low readings that require targeted treatment. In these scenarios, addressing the underlying cause is essential, and medications may be used to restore balance and prevent further episodes. (Attribution: Docmed clinic)
It is important to recognize that a sudden rise in blood pressure can sometimes produce a distinct sensation, including a temporary feeling of numbness or weakness as the body adjusts. Medical professionals stress careful monitoring and a clear plan for responding to symptoms, especially when they are new or worsening. A comprehensive evaluation helps determine whether hypotension is physiologic or signals an underlying health issue that needs treatment. (Attribution: Docmed clinic)