Journal of Vascular Medicine & Surgery

Hypotension, its Classification, Causes, and Symptoms is Essential for Maintaining Optimal Health

Berg Christen^* Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
^*Correspondence: Berg Christen, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark, Email:

Received: 26-May-2024, Manuscript No. JVMS-24-26241; Editor assigned: 28-May-2024, Pre QC No. JVMS-24-26241 (PQ); Reviewed: 12-Jun-2024, QC No. JVMS-24-26241; Revised: 19-Jun-2024, Manuscript No. JVMS-24-26241 (R); Published: 28-Jun-2024, DOI: 10.35248/2329-6925.24.S22.549

Description

Hypotension, or low blood pressure, it is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is abnormally low. While it is frequently less explored than hypertension (high blood pressure), hypotension can be equally essential and it can lead to various health issues. Blood pressure is the force exerted by circulating blood against the walls of the body's arteries, which are the major blood vessels. Hypotension is generally defined as blood pressure lower than 90/60 mmHg. It can be a sign of good health and fitness, particularly in young, healthy individuals. However, in specific conditions it can induce symptoms such as dizziness and fainting, demonstrating underlying medical disorders that require treatment.

Types of hypotension

Orthostatic hypotension, also known as postural hypotension, occurs when blood pressure decreases significantly after increasing through an establishing posture. This can result in feeling dizzy or lightheaded and death. It is frequently due to the body's inability to adjust to the change in position quickly enough, leading to temporary inadequate blood flow to the brain. Postprandial hypotension occurs after eating a meal. Blood flow to the digestive system increases after eating, which can result in a decrease in blood pressure in other parts of the body. This type of hypotension is more common in older adults and individuals with high blood pressure or autonomic nervous system disorders.

Neurologically induced hypotension occurs when blood pressure reduces after complicated durations of movement. It is caused by confusion between the heart and brain, leading to a sudden decrease in blood pressure. This type of hypotension is more common in children and young adults. Severe hypotension, or shock, is a life-threatening condition that occurs when blood pressure drops to dangerously low levels, preventing important organs from obtaining appropriate blood flow. Causes of shock include severe infections (septic shock), significant blood loss (hemorrhagic shock), and heart problems (cardiogenic shock). This requires immediate medical attention.

Causes of hypotension

Dehydration reduces the volume of blood in the body, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. This can occur due to inadequate fluid intake, excessive sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Certain heart conditions, such as bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart valve problems, heart attack, and heart failure, can lead to hypotension by impairing the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. Endocrine disorders, such as adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease), thyroid problems (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), and diabetes, can affect blood pressure regulation.

Significant blood loss from trauma or internal bleeding can reduce the amount of blood circulating in the body, leading to decreases in blood pressure. Severe infections can produce septicemia, which can result in significant impacts in blood pressure (septic shock). This is a medical emergency that requires immediate intervention. Deficiencies in essential nutrients, such as vitamin B12 and folate, can prevent the body from producing enough red blood cells, leading to low blood pressure. Certain medications, including diuretics, alpha and beta-blockers, antidepressants, and drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease, can cause hypotension as a side effect.

Symptoms of hypotension

While some individuals with hypotension may not experience any symptoms, others may have important characteristics, particularly if their blood pressure decreases suddenly or significantly. Common symptoms of hypotension include:

Dizziness or lightheadedness: A common symptom of hypotension is dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly while moving immediately. This is due to reduced blood flow to the brain.

Fainting: Severe hypotension can cause fainting (syncope) due to inadequate blood flow to the brain.

Blurred or fading vision: Sudden drops in blood pressure can affect vision, causing blurriness or fading vision.