Effects of Low Blood Pressure
Normal systolic blood pressure is between 90 and 120 mm Hg, while normal diastolic blood pressure is between 60 and 80 mm Hg. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is defined as low enough to cause symptoms.
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Primary Symptoms
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In low blood pressure, insufficient blood flows to the brain, and the person may feel dizzy and lightheaded and might even faint.
Orthostatic Hypotension
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Low blood pressure symptoms are most common when the individual stands up after sitting or lying down. This is called orthostatic hypotension. As a chronic condition, low blood pressure can be disabling.
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Heart Considerations
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Chronic low blood pressure results in lack of oxygen and nutrients to organs. Insufficient blood flow to the heart can cause chest pain or a heart attack.
Kidney Issues
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During long-term low blood pressure, kidneys cannot eliminate wastes effectively, leading to a buildup of urea and creatine in the blood.
Organ Failure
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Chronic low blood pressure can eventually cause rapid multiple organ system failure involving the heart, kidneys, liver, lungs and brain. This results in shock and death.
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