Causative & risk factors
Hypotension can occur due to several causes. One of the common causes include sudden loss of a large amount of blood or plasma (shock). Dehydration caused due to inadequate fluid intake can also cause hypotension.
Sudden change in body position can lower the blood pressure known as orthostatic hypotension. Drop in blood pressure after eating is known as post-prandial hypotension. Low blood pressure can also occur as a result of prolonged standing, a severe allergy or an infection. Medical conditions involving the heart or the thyroid gland can also cause low blood pressure. Certain medications produce hypotension as a side-effect.
Clinical presentation
The patient may feel confused, dizzy or weak and may eventually faint. Nausea or vomiting may be present. The thirst may be increased. The vision may become blurred, the breathing may become rapid and the skin may feel cold to touch. Hypotension, if left untreated can lead to hypotensive shock or unconsciousness.
Investigations
Hypotension is easily diagnosed by measuring the blood pressure of the patient while he is having any of the above-mentioned symptoms. It is usually found to be less than 90/60 mm of Hg.
Several other tests can be suggested to look for the cause of hypotension.
Treatment
Patients with low blood pressure must be made to lie down, given proper ventilation and given oral fluids. In cases of a sudden severe drop in the blood pressure, the patient may receive intravenous fluids.
The treatment will depend upon the cause of hypotension. The patient is advised to increase the intake of salt and fluids. Any underlying diseases are treated and the medications taken by the patient are reviewed.
