Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is displayed with two numbers, one over the other, as in 120/80. When blood is pumping through the arteries, the systolic pressure is the higher number, when the pressure is greatest on the walls of the arteries. The lower number is the diastolic pressure, which is the resting phase of the blood pumping cycle.

Hypotension is the condition of having unusually low blood pressure on a regular or semi-regular basis. Normal blood pressure for the average adult is 120/80 mmHg. Hypotension involves blood pressure that is 90/60 or lower.

Most of us are familiar with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, which is a serious medical condition that causes damage over a long period of time. Yet, many people are unaware that hypotension can at times be just as problematic.

In an otherwise healthy person, hypotension without any other symptoms usually does not necessitate treatment. Blood pressure can continually move up and down in a healthy individual, depending on, but not limited to, activity level, diet, medication, and emotional state. Yet ongoing hypotension can cause dizziness, fainting spells, shock, and in extreme cases, even death.

There are three main types of hypotension including orthostatic or postural hypotension, neurally mediated hypotension, and severe hypotension.

Orthostatic or postural hypotension is low blood pressure that results from standing up abruptly from a sitting or lying position. When an individual stands quickly, both arteries and veins have to contract in order to maintain normal blood pressure in the new position. The process usually occurs automatically, but with postural hypotension, the reflex is defective and the flow of blood to the brain is temporarily reduced. This can cause blurred vision, weakness, nausea, dizziness, or even fainting. Treatments for postural hypotension include special socks or pants that improve circulation, as well as behavioral changes such as standing up slowly and drinking plenty of fluids.

Neurally mediated hypotension can result from either standing in one position too long, or from serious emotional stress. Children and young adults are more likely to have neurally mediated hypotension. The symptoms and treatment for this form of hypotension are identical to those for orthostatic or postural hypotension.

Severe hypotension is usually associated with shock. Shock is the term describing what happens to the body when blood pressure falls so low that it prevents vital organs from getting enough blood. Shock can be the result of a severe physical or emotional trauma, as well as heart attack, infection, or an extreme allergic reaction. The symptoms of severe hypotension include a light, rapid pulse, clammy skin, confusion, sweating, and sometimes a loss of consciousness. Treatments include injections of blood and other fluids into the bloodstream, which restore blood flow to the organs. If not treated swiftly, shock can be deadly.

If you or someone you love has concerns about hypotension, please see your doctor.