Can your blood pressure be too low? How do you know?
June 24, 2008 - 9:34am
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For years, I've had blood pressure that usually hovers in the area of 98/68. I'm not on any medications and exercise five days a week. A relative said that may be a sign of a thyroid condition. Is that true? Can blood pressure be too low?
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The American Heart Association reports that a blood pressure lower than 120/80 is considered normal. Low blood pressure is considered dangerous when it is accompanied by symptoms that include:
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Dizziness or lightheadedness
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Fainting (called syncope)
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Lack of concentration
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Blurred vision
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Nausea
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Cold, clammy, pale skin
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Rapid, shallow breathing
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Fatigue
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Depression
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Unusual thirst
Severely low blood pressure (although there is no specific number at which blood pressure is considered too law) can indicate serious heart, endocrine or neurological disorders and can deprive the brain and other vital organs of oxygen and nutrients, leading to shock, which can be a life-threatening condition.
And fortunately for you, most doctors only consider long-term low blood pressure dangerous if it causes the above-listed symptoms.
One thing to keep in mind is that a sudden fall in blood pressure can be dangerous — even a change of just 20 mm Hg can cause dizziness or fainting, the AHA says.
Some rapid falls in blood pressure indicate a deeper underlying problem such as uncontrolled bleeding, severe infections or allergic reaction.
And it looks like your brother-in-law may be on to something with regard to the thyroid issue. Looks like endocrine problems may lead to low blood pressure. For details on other causes of low blood pressure, you may want to visit http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3034848
EmpowHer.com also features interviews with heart experts on blood pressure:
WATCH THIS: Dr.Shalizeh Shokooh Discusses Good Blood Pressure Numbers
WATCH THIS: Deanna Carlson, RN, Explains Blood Pressure