hypotension that can be life threatening

A person is said to be experiencing low blood pressure or hypotension when their blood pressure is below the normal limit, namely less than 90/60 mmHg. Low blood pressure that occurs continuously can be dangerous if it causes certain signs and symptoms, such as;

• Confusion
• Dizzy
• Nauseous
• Faint
• Fatigue
• Neck or back pain
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Uncomfortable heart feelings such as racing, pounding, or beating too hard or too fast

Factors that can cause low blood pressure are:

• Prolonged bed rest
• Stand for long periods of time
• Severe depression
• Parkinson's disease
• Pregnancy. Pregnancy can cause the circulatory system to expand rapidly, which can cause blood pressure to drop
• Dehydration or a condition where the body loses more fluid than it needs.
• Certain medications and substances can cause low blood pressure such as; Diuretics and medicines to treat high blood pressure.
• Heart problems such as very low heart rate (bradycardia), heart valve problems, heart attack and heart failure
• Endocrine problems such as; decreased thyroid hormone, low blood sugar and diabetes
• Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential vitamins such as B-12 and folic acid.

Low blood pressure conditions that can be life-threatening can occur when:

• Septic shock

This condition can occur when bacteria enter and infect the blood vessels. Where these bacteria can then produce toxins that affect the blood vessels, and this can cause dangerous low blood pressure.

• Allergic reaction

Anaphylactic shock is an allergic reaction that can lead to death. This can occur in people who are very sensitive to drugs such as penicillin. It can also occur after eating certain foods or being stung by an insect (bee or wasp).

• Decreased blood volume

Losing a lot of blood due to serious injuries or major trauma such as severe internal bleeding can reduce the blood volume in the body. This can cause a severe drop in blood pressure. And if this condition occurs suddenly and causes dizziness, nausea, or other symptoms, you must be careful because this condition could be related to low heart rate or blood pressure.

If Hermina's friends experience symptoms or signs of low blood pressure, immediately consult a doctor to get the right medical treatment, so that it does not affect the condition of low blood pressure which can have an impact on the health and safety of the body.

 

 

Reference:

American Heart Association. Diakses pada Mei 2024. Low Blood Pressure - When Blood Pressure Is Too Low. Availabel from :
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/the-facts-about-high-blood-pressure/low-blood-pressure-when-blood-pressure-is-too-low