Low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, occurs when blood flow is insufficient to deliver adequate oxygen and nutrients to vital organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys. Unlike high blood pressure, which is defined by specific blood pressure readings, low blood pressure is primarily identified by the presence of symptoms related to reduced blood flow.
Blood pressure reflects the force of blood against artery walls. It’s generated by the heart’s pumping action and the resistance within the arteries. A typical blood pressure reading consists of two numbers: systolic (the top number), which measures pressure during heart muscle contraction, and diastolic (the bottom number), which measures pressure during heart muscle relaxation.
Generally, healthy adults have a systolic blood pressure between 90 and 120 mm Hg and a diastolic blood pressure between 60 and 80 mm Hg (written as systolic/diastolic, e.g., 120/80). Current guidelines consider blood pressure below 120/80 as normal. Readings between 120/80 and 140/90, previously termed “pre-hypertension,” are now recognized as elevated. Consistent high blood pressure elevates the risk of heart disease, kidney problems, arterial hardening (atherosclerosis), eye damage, and stroke.
It’s important to note that some individuals may have blood pressure readings around 90/50 without experiencing any symptoms, while others who typically have higher blood pressure (e.g., 130/80) might exhibit symptoms if their blood pressure drops to 100/60. When low blood pressure leads to organ dysfunction or damage due to lack of oxygen and nutrients, immediate medical attention is usually required.
Some traditional remedies are believed to help manage low blood pressure. For example, buttermilk is sometimes suggested for both high and low blood pressure, and incorporating asafetida into meals is another traditional approach.