low blood pressure

Low blood pressure (BP) or hypotension can be just as dangerous as high blood pressure. Some of the common symptoms of low blood pressure are dizziness, fatigue, fainting spells or lightheadedness. Normal blood pressure measurements are 90/60 mm Hg to 130/80 mm Hg.

When blood pressure is too low, the first organ to malfunction is usually the brain. The brain malfunctions first because it is located at the top of the body and blood flow must fight gravity to reach the brain. Consequently, most people with low blood pressure feel dizzy or light-headed, particularly when they stand, and some may even faint. Low blood pressure occasionally causes shortness of breath or chest pain due to an inadequate blood supply to the heart muscle (angina).

Some common causes that lower your blood pressure are dehydration, bradycardia, tachycardia or low intake of salt.

Here are some tips on increasing the blood pressure without medication.
• Low blood pressure caused by dehydration can be treated with fluids or electrolytes. Water increases blood volume which in turn will increase BP.

• Increase salt intake by adding small amounts of salt in your meals everyday. Consult your doctor before starting on a higher salt diet as it can raise BP dramatically.

• Eat small but frequent meals. BP will drop suddenly after a large meal.

• Drink more caffeinated beverages. Caffeine can raise BP by 14mmHg as it can constrict blood vessel