What Causes Chronic Low Blood Pressure?

February 24, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's

Low Bp

Chronic low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can be caused by various factors, and it may be influenced by underlying health conditions, medications, or lifestyle choices. Here are some common causes of chronic low blood pressure:

  • Dehydration: Inadequate fluid intake can lead to a decrease in blood volume, causing a drop in blood pressure. Dehydration can be caused by not drinking enough fluids, excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting.
  • Heart Problems: Some heart conditions can result in low blood pressure. These may include extremely low heart rate (bradycardia), heart valve problems, heart attack, or heart failure.
  • Endocrine Problems: Disorders of the endocrine system, such as adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease), hypothyroidism, or low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), can lead to low blood pressure.
  • Severe Infections (Septicemia): Severe infections can lead to a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. This condition, known as septic shock, requires immediate medical attention.
  • Blood Loss: Significant loss of blood from major injuries or internal bleeding reduces the amount of blood in the body, leading to a severe drop in blood pressure.
  • Severe Allergic Reaction (Anaphylaxis): Anaphylaxis is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure. It requires immediate emergency medical attention.
  • Nutritional Deficiencies: Certain nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of vitamins B-12 and folate, can lead to anemia, which may contribute to low blood pressure.
  • Lack of Salt in the Diet: Sodium is essential for maintaining blood volume and blood pressure. A diet low in salt may result in low blood pressure, particularly in susceptible individuals.
  • Autonomic Nervous System Dysfunction: The autonomic nervous system regulates blood pressure. Dysfunction in this system, as seen in conditions like neurogenic orthostatic hypotension, may result in chronic low blood pressure.
  • Pregnancy: Some women may experience a drop in blood pressure during the first or second trimester of pregnancy. This is normal and often resolves as the pregnancy progresses.
  • Certain Medications: Some medications, such as diuretics, alpha blockers, beta blockers, and certain types of antidepressants, can cause low blood pressure as a side effect.
  • Orthostatic Hypotension: This is a form of low blood pressure that happens when standing up from a sitting or lying position. It may be associated with aging, dehydration, or certain medical conditions.

If an individual is experiencing chronic low blood pressure or persistent symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, blurred vision, or fatigue, it is important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can conduct a thorough evaluation, including a review of medical history, physical examination, and possibly additional tests to determine the underlying cause of low blood pressure and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

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