Hypotension is low blood pressure.
There are two numbers used to measure blood pressure. The first one is called Systolic. It measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats. The second one is called diastolic. It measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. Low blood pressure is considered anything below 90 systolic and 60 diastolic.
You may not realize you have hypotension right away. One of the biggest concerns with hypotension is that your brain doesn’t get enough blood. Common symptoms of hypotension are dizziness, lightheadedness, fatigue, or nausea.
You should call your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms. Low blood pressure without symptoms needs to be monitored but is not urgent. However, if you are having severe symptoms you should seek emergency medical help.
The most common type of hypotension is orthostatic hypotension. This is when your blood pressure suddenly drops when you stand, from sitting or from lying down. This can happen in older adults and women who are pregnant.
Low blood pressure is not a one size fits all kind of condition. If you think you may have hypotension start with seeing your primary care doctor. Ask him/her if you should see a nephrologist at CKHC. This is our specialty, and we’re happy to help!
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