Low Blood Pressure: When Should You Worry?
Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, is often described as a reading below 90/60 mmHg. For some people, low readings cause no problems at all. For others, they can lead to symptoms that affect daily life.
What are low blood pressure symptoms?
Possible symptoms include:
- Dizziness or light-headedness
- Feeling faint or fainting
- Blurred vision
- Weakness or unusual tiredness
- Feeling sick
- Difficulty concentrating
Symptoms can be more noticeable when you stand up quickly.
What can cause low blood pressure?
Low blood pressure can happen for many reasons. Common possibilities include dehydration, illness, some medicines, standing up suddenly, pregnancy and certain heart or hormone conditions.
Do not stop prescribed medication without speaking to the clinician who prescribed it.
When should you speak to a GP?
Contact your GP if you have repeated symptoms, fainting episodes or readings that worry you. Seek urgent help if low blood pressure comes with chest pain, severe breathlessness, confusion, signs of shock or a serious injury after a fall.
Keep a clear record
Recording your readings alongside symptoms can help a clinician understand what is happening. Use Pulse to log blood pressure trends and bring a clear record to your appointment.