What is blood pressure? Blood pressure refers to the force with which blood pushes against the walls of the arteries as it pumps through the heart. In a person with low blood pressure, blood flows through the veins and arteries with too little force. What does a sharp drop in blood pressure mean? This condition is called reduced cardiac output. It can occur as a result of heart problems, endocrine (hormonal) disorders and certain medications. Sudden changes in cardiac output can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. Symptoms Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). Hypotension is usually defined as a systolic (top) value of 90 mmHg and a diastolic (bottom) value of 60 mmHg. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mmHg or less. However, blood pressure that is too far below this number can lead to problems. In general, the lower and faster the blood pressure drops, the more serious the symptoms will be. Sudden (also known as acute) drops in blood pressure can cause symptoms ranging from mild dizziness and fatigue to severe cardiac arrhythmias and respiratory distress. Common symptoms When blood pressure suddenly drops, blood flow to the body decreases. This deprives the body of the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function. Lack of blood flow to the brain especially causes symptoms. Typical symptoms include:

• Lightheadedness
• Dizziness
• Nudity
• Fatigue
• Sleepiness
• Difficulties with concentration
• Blurred vision
• Fainting

Other symptoms that may occur include chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heartbeat, hives, fever, indigestion and vomiting. These tend to be related to the condition that caused the decline in the first place. Severe symptoms Extreme hypotension can severely deprive the brain and vital organs of oxygen and nutrients, leading to shock. Shock can progress very quickly. Symptoms include:

• Great weakening
• Great anxiety
• Fast heart rate
• Low pulse
• Fast, shallow breathing
• Prolific sweating
• Increased thirst
• Cold, moist skin
• Disorientation

Causes There are several possible causes of hypotension. Some of them may overlap, making diagnosis difficult. The causes include: 1. 1. H 3. vasodilation describes the sudden widening of blood vessels. As the blood vessels become wider, blood pressure continues to fall. 4 Hypotensive syndrome is the term used when more than one factor causes a sudden drop in blood pressure. Typically, a person has an underlying condition that is then triggered by doing something, such as standing up after sitting down or experiencing severe emotional stress. Summary In people with certain diseases or conditions, doing something as simple as rising from a chair or turning their heads can trigger a sudden drop in blood pressure. This is known as hypotensive syndrome. Hypotension can often be successfully treated. Anyone who has persistent symptoms of low blood pressure should consult a doctor. Anyone experiencing a sudden, significant drop in blood pressure should seek urgent medical attention.