How to Recognize Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure

Continued low blood pressure, also known as hypotension, may cause permanent organ damage if it goes untreated because the organs cannot function properly when blood pressure is too low to give them an adequate blood supply. You can avert this danger by recognizing the symptoms of possible low blood pressure and seeking treatment quickly once they have been identified.

Instructions

• 1

  Stay alert to unusual symptoms, especially when you're moving from sitting or lying to standing. This is when the symptoms of low blood pressure are most likely to appear.

• 2

  Check for lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting upon standing. These may be signs of low blood pressure and should be reported to your medical provider.

• 3

  Realize that even seemingly unrelated symptoms such as depression, fatigue, blurred vision and thirst may in fact be signs of low blood pressure.

• 4

  Be aware that shock may result from low blood pressure. If you notice the abnormal symptoms described in Steps 2 or 3 or signs of shock, seek medical help. Signs of shock include nausea, clammy skin and rapid, shallow breathing.