A low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure levels fall below the normal range of 120/80 mmHg. It generally refers to a systolic pressure below 90 mmHg or a diastolic pressure below 60 mmHg. Several factors can cause low blood pressure including diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, and factors that affect normal blood volume in the body. This is why low blood pressure, also known as hypotension can lead to a range of symptoms including something as common as a headache, which can often lead to misdiagnosis. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Vigyan Mishra, Chief of Lab, Neuberg Diagnostics, explains how low blood pressure can cause headache and how to identify it.
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Common Symptoms Of Low Blood Pressure
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), low blood pressure is benign as long as none of the symptoms indicate a lack of oxygen in the body. Symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Fainting
- Fatigue
- Neck or back pain
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Heart palpitations
Why Headache Can Be A Sign Of Hypotension?
“Headaches are often associated with high blood pressure, but they can also occur in individuals with low blood pressure,” Dr Mishra said, adding, “While it is commonly known that high blood pressure can cause headaches due to increased pressure on blood vessels, low blood pressure can have similar effects. Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, can result in reduced blood flow to the brain, leading to headaches.”
According to the doctor, when blood pressure drops significantly, the brain fails to receive an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients, causing a headache to occur. Additionally, low blood pressure can cause dilation of blood vessels, leading to the release of certain chemicals that can trigger headaches, he added.
How To Tell If Your Headache Is Caused By Low Blood Pressure?
Dr Mishra shares that headaches caused by low blood pressure typically have specific characteristics. “They are often described as throbbing, pulsating, and accompanied by dizziness or lightheadedness. These symptoms may worsen when standing up quickly or after prolonged periods of sitting or lying down,” he explained.
The doctor recommended consulting a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation, if you frequently experience headaches along with low blood pressure symptoms. As per the doctor, they can determine the underlying cause of your low blood pressure and provide appropriate treatment or management strategies to alleviate your symptoms.
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Steps To Take In Case Of Low Blood Pressure
Here are some measures to take in case you develop low blood pressure symptoms:
Sit or lie down
It is advisable to look for a comfortable spot to sit or lie down. This can help alleviate symptoms and prevent fainting.
Keep drinking water
Drink plenty of fluids and stay hydrated as dehydration can worsen low blood pressure symptoms.
Munch on something
Having a small, balanced snack, particularly one that includes salt or electrolytes may help raise blood pressure.
Avoid sudden movements
Do not make sudden movements, instead indulge in slow and deliberate movements to minimise the risk of dizziness or fainting. Take your time when transitioning from sitting or lying down to standing up.
Bottomline
Low blood pressure can be concerning, but with the right measures, it can be prevented and treated immediately. If you continue to experience persistent or severe symptoms, or if you have concerns about your low blood pressure, it is essential to visit a doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
