Hypotension is low blood pressure,
especially in the arteries of the systemic circulation. Blood pressure is the
force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps out
blood. A systolic blood pressure of less than 90 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg)
or diastolic of less than 60 mm Hg is generally considered to be hypotension.
However, in practice, blood pressure is considered too low only if noticeable
symptoms are present.
Hypotension is the opposite of
hypertension, which is high blood pressure. It is best understood as a
physiological state, rather than a disease. Severely low blood pressure can
deprive the brain and other vital organs of oxygen and nutrients, leading to a
life-threatening condition called shock. Though often associated with shock,
hypotension is not necessarily indicative of it.
For some people
who exercise and are in top physical condition, low blood pressure is a sign of
good health and fitness. For many people, excessively low blood pressure can
cause dizziness and fainting or indicate serious heart, endocrine or neurological
disorders.
