Introduction
Blood pressure values of less than 105/60 mmHg are called too low blood pressure. However, it is not possible to say at what point low blood pressure becomes critical for the person concerned. It is even suspected that rather low blood pressure values have a protective effect on the vessel walls.
If low blood pressure becomes symptomatic in an affected person, this is a clinical picture that should be treated. However, the blood pressure value above which treatment is indicated is a matter of controversy. With blood pressure values below 90/60 mmHg, some doctors do assume that treatment is indicated.
Symptoms of low blood pressure
Typical symptoms of hypotension (low blood pressure) are specific general disorders. These are very typical, which is why they can usually be clearly assigned to a hypotensive state. These include dizziness or the occurrence of visual disturbances (typically starry vision or blackening of the eyes).
These two sensory disorders are due to a lack of blood supply to the brain vessels with a consecutive lack of oxygen. This undersupply of blood occurs mainly in the morning or during certain changes of position (typically from the lying to the standing position). In general, daily fatigue and poor performance often occurs.
Concerning the mental ability at work etc., a strong limitation of the ability to concentrate is often noticeable. As the body tries to centralize the blood volume in hypotension to the vital organs heart and brain, a feeling of cold in the fingers and toes and general paleness may occur. The development of circulatory disorders can even lead to circulatory collapse with consecutive syncope (unconsciousness).
Typical in connection with a strong tiredness is also an increased need for sleep. Those affected often complain of profuse sweating and the occurrence of palpitations, ringing in the ears or a rapid pulse. All these phenomena can be traced back to an attempt by the heart to compensate for low blood pressure by increasing the heart rate and stroke volume.
