Low blood pressure is normally a good thing but it may need
medical attention if not enough blood reaches the organs
and causes symptoms such as dizziness and fainting
The symptoms associated with low blood pressure usually develop over time. These include:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Shortness of breath
- Fainting
- Cold hands and feet
- Feeling tired
- Feeling weak and shaky
Often these symptoms become apparent when a person stands suddenly – "postural" (or orthostatic) hypotension. Symptoms that arise after eating a big meal indicate "postprandial" hypotension.
Low blood pressure can affect anyone in certain situations, such as standing for long periods in a hot place or following a period of intense stress or emotion. However, it's when low blood pressure regularly causes symptoms that there may be other factors involved. These include:
- Heart conditions such as heart failure which mean your heart isn't pumping effectively
- Dehydration
- Internal bleeding
- Blood donation
- Conditions involving your nervous system such as diabetes
- Pregnancy
- Allergic reaction to particular chemicals or drugs
- Reaction to medications for heart conditions, high blood pressure or depression
- Certain types of infection
To diagnose low blood pressure a doctor will examine you, discuss your symptoms and your medical history. Certain tests will be carried out according to whether you have symptoms that indicate postural hypotension or postprandial hypotension.
Source: http://www.bodyandsoul.com.au/
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