Ever wondered what those two numbers mean when your blood pressure is measured? Well, blood pressure is simply the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps it around your body!
Usually, a healthy blood pressure is around 120 over 80. But when those numbers drop significantly, generally below 90 over 60, it’s called hypotension, or low blood pressure. While often harmless, sometimes it’s a sign something’s not quite right.
One of the most common causes is simply not drinking enough water! When you’re dehydrated, your body has less fluid, reducing your blood volume. Think of it like a garden hose: less water, less pressure!
Significant blood loss, from an injury or internal bleeding, can also lead to low blood pressure. Less blood in your system means less pressure pushing through your vessels.
Your heart is your body’s pump! If it’s not pumping strongly enough, due to conditions like heart failure or a very slow heartbeat, it can’t maintain adequate blood pressure.
Hormone imbalances, from conditions like Addison’s disease or an underactive thyroid, can also affect your body’s ability to regulate blood pressure.
A severe body-wide infection, known as sepsis, can cause blood vessels to widen dramatically, leading to a dangerous drop in blood pressure.
Similarly, a severe allergic reaction, or anaphylaxis, causes your blood vessels to suddenly expand, causing a rapid and extreme drop in blood pressure.
Even some common medications, like those for high blood pressure, depression, or even over-the-counter pain relievers, can have low blood pressure as a side effect.
While sometimes low blood pressure is normal, if you experience dizziness, fainting, or extreme fatigue, it’s always best to consult your doctor to understand the cause.
Understanding what causes low blood pressure can help you and your doctor keep your heart healthy and your body in balance. Stay hydrated, stay informed, and always listen to your body!