Causes and Risks of Low Blood Pressure

Apr 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

Low blood pressure, or diastolic hypotension, may result from various factors including physiological and pathological causes. Potential complications include cerebral ischemia, decreased vision, and kidney failure. Additionally, it may be related to medication use and can lead to harms such as myocardial ischemia. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly, seek prompt medical attention when abnormalities occur, and follow a doctor's instructions regarding the use of therapeutic medications.

Generally, low blood pressure refers to low diastolic pressure. Its causes may include physiological and pathological factors. Additionally, associated risks include cerebral ischemia, vision loss, and kidney failure. The details are as follows:

I. Causes

1. Physiological factors

With aging, blood vessels undergo degenerative changes leading to reduced vascular elasticity, which promotes atherosclerosis and subsequently lowers diastolic pressure, potentially causing dizziness.

2. Pathological factors

Individuals with underlying heart conditions such as arrhythmia or myocardial infarction may experience impaired cardiac blood supply, resulting in insufficient perfusion of multiple organs. During such periods, diastolic pressure tends to remain low, often accompanied by symptoms like general fatigue.

II. Risks

1. Cerebral ischemia

Prolonged low diastolic pressure impairs cerebral blood flow, leading to symptoms such as headache and memory decline. Without effective treatment, it may easily progress to conditions like cerebral infarction or dementia.

2. Vision loss

Reduced diastolic pressure compromises overall bodily function and affects cerebral blood and oxygen supply, contributing to decreased visual acuity.

3. Kidney failure

Inadequate renal perfusion leads to decreased renal blood flow, manifesting as oliguria or anuria. In severe cases, this can progress to kidney failure.

Additionally, factors such as medication use may contribute to complications like myocardial ischemia. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and seek timely medical attention when abnormalities occur.

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Is low diastolic blood pressure considered hypotension?

Generally, a low reading in either value indicates hypotension—for example, systolic pressure below 90 mmHg and diastolic pressure below 60 mmHg; or systolic pressure below 90 mmHg with normal diastolic pressure; or normal systolic pressure with diastolic pressure below 60 mmHg. Therefore, low diastolic pressure typically refers to a diastolic pressure below 60 mmHg, which is considered hypotension.

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What does it mean when the diastolic pressure is low and the systolic pressure is high?

Low blood pressure generally refers to diastolic pressure, while high blood pressure usually means systolic pressure. Low diastolic pressure combined with high systolic pressure may be caused by factors such as aging, hyperthyroidism, hyperlipidemia, aortic atherosclerosis, or aortic valve insufficiency. Patients should promptly seek medical attention at a正规 hospital to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. In daily life, patients need to pay attention to proper self-care.