Blood Pressure | Hypotension May Be Potentially Harmful

Posted by reggiedon | Posted in Exercise/Workout | Posted on 09-02-2010

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Hypotension results from decreased arterial pressure subsequent to each beat of the heart. There are two essential aspects to blood pressure; arterial resistance to blood flow through the blood vessels and the force with which the heart ejects and circulates blood. There are also other factors which might alter blood pressure, such as emotional or physical stress, medications, alcohol consumption and whether or not the patient has recently eaten.

While most people are aware of the hazards of high blood pressure it is important to recognize that low blood pressure carries its own risks and consequences. Symptoms of low blood pressure may include light-headedness, blurring of vision, nausea, sleepiness, weakness or loss of consciousness. Sudden onset of symptoms might be an indication of serious health conditions such as heart attack, heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia, diabetes, dehydration or anaphylactic shock (severe allergic reaction.)

Dehydration may ensue following a lengthy attack of diarrhea and/or vomiting due to an illness such as the bacterial food poisoning or influenza. Still other possible causes of excess fluid loss include excess perspiration due to physical exertion or exposure to extreme heat over an extended period of time, and the use of diuretics. Exposure to substances, or ingestion of food to which one is hypersensitive or to which one has an allergy, may precipitate an anaphylactic reaction which may trigger a hypotensive episode. Severe or prolonged hemorrhaging and various viral or bacterial infections are also capable of sending blood pressure into a rapid and perilous downward spiral.

Extreme or prolonged blood loss or poor cause low red blood cell counts. The common term for a low red blood cell count is anemia. Poor diet might also be responsible for insufficient intake of other vital nutrients, resulting in hypotension. Orthostatic hypotension is weakness or dizziness that occurs when quickly changing from a reclining to an upright body position. Symptoms which occur after a meal might signal postprandial hypotension. Many pharmaceuticals used for the treatment of anxiety or depression and alcohol may also negatively impact blood pressure.

Asymptomatic hypotension in a generally healthy individual rarely requires treatment. However, it is essential to keep your physician informed of any symptoms you might be experiencing so he or she can investigate their cause and initiate any necessary treatments. If you are currently taking a prescription medication consult your health care provider for possible changes in dose or a different medication. Anemia and hypoglycemia can be detected with a simple laboratory test. Cardiac arrhythmia, heart failure and heart attack are diagnosed with more sophisticated exams and monitoring devices. Your physician may advise you to increase your salt intake. Simple dietary changes, herbal supplements, meditation and deep breathing exercises, and potassium drinks are all effective in normalizing hypotension. Ask your health care provider which ones he or she recommends. Though low blood pressure is not to be taken too lightly it should be some consolation to know that most physicians concur that patients with hypotension have a longer life expectancy than those with hypertension.

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