08/02/2026
MANAGEMENT OF HYPOTENSION (LOW BP)
Hypotension simply means low blood pressure.
What counts as hypotension?
Generally: BP < 90/60 mmHg
It’s more important how the patient feels than the number alone.
COMMON SYMPTOMS
Dizziness or light-headedness
Fainting (syncope)
Blurred vision
Weakness, fatigue
Nausea
Cold, clammy skin (especially in shock)
CAUSES (VERY COMMON ONES)
Dehydration (vomiting, diarrhea, poor intake)
Blood loss (trauma, GI bleed, postpartum)
Medications (antihypertensives, diuretics, nitrates)
Sepsis / severe infection
Heart problems (MI, arrhythmias, heart failure)
Endocrine causes (Addison’s disease)
Orthostatic hypotension (BP drop on standing)
Pregnancy
TYPES
1. Orthostatic (postural) hypotension
↓ ≥20 mmHg systolic or ≥10 mmHg diastolic on standing
2. Shock-related hypotension
Medical emergency 🚨
3. Chronic asymptomatic hypotension
Often normal in young, slim, or athletic people
INITIAL MANAGEMENT (clinical approach)
1. Assess symptoms & consciousness to ascertain if you’re feeling dizzy or faint:
2. Lay patient flat, raise legs
3. Check pulse, BP, urine output
4. Give IV fluids if hypovolemic to Increases blood flow to your heart and brain.
5. Treat the cause (infection, bleeding, drugs)
6. Dehydration is a common cause. Drink 1–2 glasses of water or an electrolyte drink.
7. Eat something salty
Salt helps raise blood pressure. Try salty crackers or a small amount of table salt in water (in moderation).
8. Caffeine (temporarily)
Coffee or tea can boost BP short term. Not for regular use.
DAILY LIFESTYLE REMEDIES
To prevent low BP, take of the following;
🩺 Eat small, frequent meals
Large meals can cause a drop in BP after eating (postprandial hypotension).
🩺 Add more salt to your diet (if approved by your doctor)
Especially if your BP tends to be low consistently.
🩺Stay hydrated
Drink at least 2–3 liters of water daily.
🩺 Avoid alcohol
It lowers blood pressure and dehydrates you.
🩺Compression stockings
Help prevent blood from pooling in your legs.
🩺Stand up slowly
To prevent dizziness from sudden drops in BP (orthostatic hypotension).
WHEN IT’S DANGEROUS
⚠️With altered consciousness
⚠️With chest pain
⚠️With reduced urine output
⚠️In pregnancy, elderly, or trauma