Low blood pressure is generally considered to be less than 90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) for the top number (systolic) or 60 mm Hg for the bottom number (diastolic). What is considered low pressure for one person may be fine for another. Low blood pressure may cause no noticeable symptoms, or it may cause dizziness and fainting. Sometimes low blood pressure can be life-threatening. The causes of low blood pressure can range from dehydration to serious medical conditions. It is important to find out what causes low blood pressure so that it can be treated, if necessary. What is orthostatic hypotension? Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension). This is a sudden drop in blood pressure when getting up from a sitting position or after lying down. Causes include dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and certain medications. This type of low blood pressure is common in older adults. Low blood pressure (hypotension) symptoms may include:

• Blurred or diminishing vision
• Dizziness or photophobia
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Concentration problems
• Nudity

For some people, low blood pressure can be a sign of an underlying disease, especially when it drops suddenly or occurs with symptoms. What causes a sharp drop in blood pressure? Orthostatic hypotension (postural hypotension). It is a sudden drop in blood pressure when getting up from a sitting position or after lying down. Causes include dehydration, prolonged bed rest, pregnancy, certain medical conditions and certain medications. This type of low blood pressure is common in the elderly. What happens if blood pressure is lowered too quickly? Lowering blood pressure too quickly can damage blood flow to organs accustomed to functioning at high blood pressure levels. For this reason, doctors usually give medications that gradually lower blood pressure to about 160/110 mm Hg within the first 24 hours. Extreme low blood pressure can lead to a condition known as shock. Symptoms of shock include: Disorientation, especially in the elderly

Cold, moist skin

Decrease in skin coloration (pallor)

Fast, shallow breathing

Faint and rapid pulse

What to do if blood pressure suddenly drops? There are many natural ways and lifestyle changes to raise low blood pressure, including the following lifestyle changes.

• Eat more salt
• Avoid alcoholic beverages
• Discuss medications with your doctor
• Cross your legs while sitting
• Drink water
• Eat small meals frequently
• Wear compression stockings
• Avoid sudden changes in position.

Can a sudden drop in blood pressure cause death? If blood pressure is too low, it can cause dizziness, fainting or death. Low blood pressure is not a condition that is usually treated, except when it occurs in the elderly or occurs suddenly. When to go to the doctor If you have symptoms of extremely low blood pressure (hypotension) or shock, seek emergency medical help. Most health professionals consider blood pressure to be too low only when it causes symptoms. Occasional minor dizziness or lightheadedness can be caused by many things, such as spending too much time in the sun or in a hot bath. It is important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. If you have consistently low blood pressure but feel fine, your doctor may simply monitor you during routine checkups. It may be helpful to record your symptoms, when they occur and what you are doing at the time.